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COPYRIGHT DEFOSir. 



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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 



STATE OFFICERS. 



MEMBEES of tie SeIITE 11 EOiE Of fefEESEITHITES 






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B'OIE^ 1885. 



COMPILED BY L. B. BROWN. 



VOLUME I. 
PRICE, TWENTY CEJYTS. 



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m 6 1005, 

HARTFORD, CONN.: 

PUBLISHED BY THE COMPILER. 

1885. 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1885, by L. B. Brown, in the office of the 
Librarian ot Congress at Washington. 



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NOTE. 

patron, .f »-"^;-/jT„.;\'rp;'; ed d^uvt: has been to make it 
rr;--;'::S:„ I^J:^ ^eX lo^. .a,,, to jne,n.«s. we tn.st U 

^ t^ woll 5PVVP the mirpose for which it is mteiidecl. 
"ItS^n is fnla i: tl;: m a„d announcements of o„. advertising pafons. 
whom we clieerfully recommend to the pubhc. ^^^ EDITOR. 



January 1. 1S85. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



GOVERNOR. 

Hon. Henry Baldwin Harrison of New Haven was born in that city, Sep- 
tember 11, 1821, and is in his 64th year. He was a student in Lovell's Lancas- 
terian school, and was Mr. Lovell's assistant while pursuing the academic .course 
at Yale, graduating with the honors of valedictorian in the class of '4G. He 
studied law and began practice with Lucius G. Peck, and has continued in his 
chosen profession till this day, achieving a reputation second to no man in the 
state. He enjoys a large and lucrative practice. As a public speaker, Mr. Harri- 
son holds his audience from first to last with convincing facts and deductions, 
soundly argumentative throughout. He occupies an enviable position beside many 
of the great-publicists who have deeply affected the popular will. His first appear- 
ance in politics was in 1S54, when he was chosen to the state Senate as a Whig. 
He drafted the Personal Liberty bill, and immediately associated himself with the 
Free-Soil party and took an active participation in the discussion of the slavery 
question until that party was merged in the Republican party, which Mr. Harrison 
aided in forming; and was the candidate of the new party for lieutenant-governor 
in 1856. He was a warm supporter of Mr. Lincoln's administration, and all the 
measures for the preservation of the LTnion. In 18G5 he was elected representative 
to the legislature, and served, with distinction as chairman of the committees on 
railroads and federal relations. In 1873 he was re-elected, and served with ability 
as chairman of the committee on constitutional convention and as a member of the 
judiciary committee. He became the nominee of his party for governor in 1874. 
He was again elected to the legislature in 1883, and served, by the earnest wishes 
of his party, as speaker, with ability, impartiality, and universal acceptance. He 
is a sound statesman, of ripened experience in public affairs. 



LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR. 

Hon. Lorrin A. Cooke of Barkhamsted was born in New Marlboro', Mass. 
April 6, 1831, and is 54 years of age. He was educated in the common schools 
and at Norfolk academy, and followed teaching school winters and worked on his 
father's farm summers, with whom he finally settled down, being an only child, 
to intelligent and progressive farming, having maiTied Matilda E., daughter of 
Deacon Abner S. Webster of Sandisfield, Mass., in 1858, his father in the mean- 
time having removed to Norfolk, Conn., in 1837, and to Colebrook in 1843. He 
was elected to the house in 1856, at the age of 25. He was early made school visi- 
tor in Colebrook, and first selectman in 1864, serving each year till he removed 
from that town in 1869, to become manager of the Eagle Scythe Co. at Riverton, 
Barkhamsted, where he has conducted a successful business, and remained till the 
present time. Mr. Cooke's first wife died in 1868, and he re-married, in 1873, 
Josephine £., daughter of Michael Ward, a Riverton manufacturer. He has one 
surviving daughter. He is an honored member of the Congregational church, and 



4 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

was superintendent of the Sabbath-school in Colebrook ; he held the office of post- 
master for several years. He was elected to the state Senate in 1881, and re-elected 
in 1882, serving for three years as chairman of the committee on education, and 
during the last session as chairman of the committee on engi-ossed bills, also on 
the special committee on the Storrs Agricultural School. He was frequently called 
to the chair, and presided with ability. He never has sought official position, but 
has filled every trust reposed in him with ability and conscientious regard for the 
public interests. 



SECRETARY OF STATE. 

Charles Addison Russell of Killingly was born in Worcester, Mass., March 
2, 1852, and is 33 years of age. He is by occupation a manufacturer, married, and 
a Congregationalist in religious belief. He has resided at Killingly since 1879. 
He was educated at the Worcester schools and at Yale College, class of '73, taking 
high rank as a student, as well as winning popularity in his class by his genial 
manner and his enthusiasm in college sports. He was a newsboy on the streets of 
Worcester for a number of years, and subsequently a mailing clerk on the old 
" Worcester Spy." After graduation, he held an editorial position on the same paper 
and on the " Worcester Press;" and had as associates on the latter Mr. Spalding, Mr. 
Weaver, now of the " Hartford Post," and Senator Stanton of the 9th District. 
Colonel Russell is a forcible writer, a polished and graceful speaker, and a gentle- 
man of exceptional abilities. He obtained his title by serving as an aide-de-camp 
on the staff of Gov. Bigelow in 1881. He was a member of the House in 1883, and 
served as chairman of the committee on cities and boroughs. While in the legis- 
lature he distinguished himself by 'his readiness in debate and skill in disposing of 
public business. For the past six years Col. Russell has been engaged in the 
business of manufacturing at Dayville, Killingly, as treasurer of the Sabin L. 
Sayles Co., woolen mills: treasui'er of the Quinebaug Brick Co., of Brooklyn, 
Conn. ; and vice-president and director of the demons Self-Hoisting and Gear 
Co. He has been a Republican from " way back," and has filled every trust with 
fidelity, urbanity, and intelligence. 



TREASURER. 

Hon. Valentine Burt Chamberlain of New Britain was born at Colebrook 
River, August 13, 1833, and is 52 years of age. He was educated at the Suffield Lit- 
erary Institution and Williams College, class of '57, having President Garfield for 
a college mate. He then studied law with the late Seth E. Case of New Britain, 
and was admiited to the bar in 1859. The following year he established and con- 
ducted for a short season the " New Britain News." In 1861, he was elected assist- 
ant clerk of the House. In August of that year, he enlisted in the 7th Connecti- 
cut Vols., and was made 2d lieutenant of Company A; and was promoted to the 
captaincy in July, 1862, after the brilliant siege and capture of Fort Pulaski. In 
the brave but deadly assault on Fort Wagner, in July, 1863, Captain Chamberlain 
commanded the right of the picked battalion of the 7th, and was taken prisoner 
and held in rebel prisons in Charleston, Columbia, and Charlotte, until March 1, 
1865, when he was paroled and joined his regiment in time to witness the final 
collapse of the rebellion. He then served a term in the House. The next two 
years he was engaged in cotton-raising in Florida, in company with Major Kinney 
of Hartford. Since 1868 Capt. Chamberlain has made his home in New Brit- 
ain, where he was married, and has a family of seven children. For several 
years he was assistant pension agent for the state under Col. Rodman, holding the 
office until the district was merged with that of Massachusetts. During most of 
the time since 1868 he has been judge of the New Britain city court, having been 



CONX. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 



appointed when the court was established. For the past five years, by successive 
re-elections, he has been judge of probate for the Berlin District. He was a dele- 
gate to the Republican national conventions in 1868 and 1884, and is of deserved 
popularity. 



COMPTROLLER. 

Hon. Luzerne I. Munson of Waterbury was born in Wallingford, March, 
1837, and is 48 years old. He was educated in the common schools and at Dur- 
ham academy. He is a druggist by occupation, and is married. From the age 
of 17 till 21 he served with the Apothecaries' Hall Co., in Waterbury. He was 
then book-keeper for a year and a half for what is now the Burnham Manufactur- 
ing Co. From 1862 till 1863 he was secretary and treasurt^r of Pratt, Read, & Co. 
at Meriden. In the latter year, at the age of 26, he returned to "Waterbury as sec- 
retary and treasurer of the Apothecaries' Hall Co.; and for the last twenty-one 
years has been the active manager of that company. He was one of the original 
members of the Connecticut Pliarmaceutical Association, for several years the 
chairman of its executive committee, and for one year its president. He is also a 
member of the American Pharmaceutical Association. He has served five years 
as a member of the board of fire commissioners; one year as assessor; and is at 
present a member of the board of sewer commissioners. He has been an active 
politician, having served for ten years as a member of the Republican state com- 
mittee, and has been prominent in all public affairs relating to the community in 
which he lives. He has twice been his party's candidate for mayor. He has 
exhibited industry, honesty, and ability in all positions where he has been placed. 
He was a delegate to the Republican national convention of 1884. He was always 
a Republican. 

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BIOURAPHICAL SKETCHES 



T IS 



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Safe to Take Sure to Cure 



Ayei-'s Sursaparilla. and those who use it 
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writes: "Ayer's Sarsaparilla is an excel- 
lent alterative tonic, and in all cases where 
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Mrs. H. M. Thayer, Hillside st., 3Iilton, 
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Prepared by Dr. J. C. Ayer & Co., Lowell, Mass., U. S. A. 
For sale by ail Druggists. Price $1 ; six bottles for $5. 



SENATE. 

The Senate is composed of twenty-four members, viz.: Republicans, 17, Demo- 
crats, 7; total, 24. 

The oldest member of the Senate is the Hon. Thomas J. Clarke, of Canterbury, 
■who is 75, having been born in 1810; the youngest member is the Hon. Robert 
Jay Walsh, of Greenwich, who is not yet 31, having been born in August, 1854. 
Six of the members are between 30 and 40 years of age ; nine between 40 and 50; 
three between 50 and 60 ; three between 60 and 70, and two over 70. The members 
are all natives of the state except eight. 2 having been born in Rhode Island, 2 in 
New Jersey, 2 in New York, and 2 in Mass. Four are graduates of colleges, and 
the others had the advantages afforded by the district and high schools and acade- 
mies of the state. Thirteen have been members of the House, eleven are serving 
their second year in the Senate, two have previously been members of the Senate, 
six have seen service in both branches, and three have .never had legislative 
experience. 

Five are Congregationalists ; four Episcopalians : two Baptists ; one Unitarian ; 
one who believes in fundamental morality, and the remainder decline to state their 
preference in religion, if they have any. All of the senators have been married. 

The profession or occupation of members is as follows: Manufacturers, 9 ; mer- 
chants, 3 ; lawyers, 3; farmers, 2 ; retired 3; and one each, farmer and stock- 
breeder, journalist, mechanic, and bank president. 



CONN. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 7 

Allen, John, Old Saybrook, District No. 21. Republican, Unitarian, retired 
from business, man-ied; age, 70. Born in Meriden, February 5, 1815, and resided 
for a time in New York city. Educated in this country and in Europe. Has held 
various offices of trust and responsibility. Member of the Senate in 18G3-64, and 
84. Was formerly a Whig. 

Alsop, Joseph W., Middletown, District No. 22. Democrat, farmer and stock- 
breeder; age, 46. Ijorn in New York city, in August, 1838. Educated at Yale 
and Columbia Scientific school, and graduated from the medical department of 
the University of New York in 1864. He is much interested in agriculture and 
stock-breeding, and his learning and scholarly attainments make him a most valu- 
able legislator. He has held many positions of ti'ust and responsibility in both 
branches of the common council, board of trustees of hospital for the insane, of the 
Russell library, and trustee and treasui-er of St. Luke's Home. Member of the 
House in 1873, and of the Senate in 1881-82-83, and 84, 

Batcheller, Wheelock T., Winchester, District No. 18. Republican, scythe 
manufacturer; age, 45. Born in Winchester, 1840. His father died when he was 
4 years old; he attended the common school till 14 years of age, and then spent two 
terms at the Hudson River Institute,' Claverack, N. Y. In 1855 he entered the 
scythe manufactory of his maternal grandfather, Capt. Wheelock Thayer, for 
whom he was named, and for six years passed through all the various practical 
grades of the business. In 1858 the firm of Wilder & Batchellers succeeded Mr. 
Thayer, himself being a member of the firm. He enlisted in 1861 as a lieutenant 
in a company raised for the regiment of Colonel (afterwards General) A. H Terry, 
and commanded liis company at the battle of Bull Run. He re-enlisted in the 
28th Connecticut Vols., and held the rank of lieutenant-colonel, being in command 
of the regiment during the siege of Port Hudson. He then served in the quarter- 
master's department of Gen. Sherman's army, and had charge of the railroads ope- 
rated by the government, and centering at Raleigh, N. C.,from April to December, 
1865. He resumed the scythe business in 1807, as manager of the Thayer Co., 
successor of the old firm. He is a thorough and successful business man. He has 
served in the House with distinction as chairman of the ^Military committee. 

Brewster, John, Ledyard, District No. 10. Republican, Episcopal, farmer^ 
married; age, 69. Born in Preston, May 13, 1816, and has lived in Ledyard since 
4 years of age. Educated in the common schools. Held offices of captain of 
Groton and Stonington Rifle Co: deputy-sheriff; selectman and town agent for 
eight or ten years; judge of probate of district of Ledyard; president of New 
London County Agricultural Society for three years; member of the Connecticut 
Board of Agriculture three years; committee to layout higliways; committee to 
assess damages at Niantic for state military camp-ground; has settled various 
estates, some twenty-five or more, both assigned and otherwise ; appointed a com- 
mittee by superior court to sell land, etc. ; is at present president of the Merchants' 
National bank, and vice-president of the Norwicli Savings bank. Member of the 
House in 1847-51 and 78, and of the Senate in 1860. Formerly a Whig. 

Chaffee, J. Dwight, Mansfield, District No. 24. Republican, no religious 
pi'eference stated, silk-manufacturer, married; age, 89. Born in Mansfield, August 
9, 1846; educated in the common schools there, and has alvvaj's resided there. 
Member of the House in 1874. Always a Republican. 

Chapman, Maro S., Manchester. District No. 20. Republican, Congregation- 
alist, manufacturer, married; age, 45. Born in East Haddam, February 13, 1839, 
and was educated there. Has served as president of the Hartford Manilla Co., 
and vice-president of the Plimpton Manufacturing Co. Was a member of the 
House in 1881. Was always a Republican. 

Clarke, Thomas G., Canterbury, District No. 17. Republican, Congregation- 
alist, retired from business, married; age, 75. Born in Franklin in 1810; resided 
principally in Canterbury. Educated at Providence, R. I., and Hartford Theo- 
logical Seminary. Has served as justice of the peace, school visitor, and selectman 
for several years. Member of the House in 1883, and the Senate in 1884. Has 
never changed his political principles. 



8 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

CooLEY, Francis Buel, Hartford, District No. 1. Kepublican, retired from 
business, married ; age, 62. Born in Granville, Mass., in 1823. Resided seven- 
teen years in Chicago, from 1847 till 1864. Educated in the public schools. 
Established the first vi'holesale dry-goods house ever established in Chicago, vphich 
continues now under the firm name of J. V. Farwell & Co. Mr. Cooley is largely 
interested in banking and financial institutions ; is president of the National Ex- 
change bank, director of the iEtna Insurance Co., trustee of Pratt St. Society 
for Savings, and director in Hartford Gas Light Co., Broad Brook Co., and Land- 
ers, Frary, & Clark. Member of Senate in 1884. 

Crandall, Joseph Clark, Lebanon, District No. 11. Republican, Baptist, 
farmer, married; age, 53. Born in Kingston, R. I.; resided in Providence from 
1850 till 1853. Came to Lebanon in the latter year. Educated in the common 
schools. Has held the offices of justice of the peace, committee of the Lebanon 
Baptist Society, town agent and first selectman seven years, and agent of the town 
deposit and school funds. Member of the House in 1878, and is serving his second 
year in the Senate. Was always a Republican. 

CuRTiss, Horace D., Woodbury, District No. 20. Republican, Congrega- 
tionalist, manufacturer, married ; age, 44. Born in Woodbury in 1841, educated 
there, and has always resided there. His business has principally been the manu- 
facture of woolen goods. At one time, he was a member of the Capwell Manu- 
facturing Co., and is now a member of Pomperaug Tapestry ]\lanufacUiring Co., 
and is also in connection with a member of the firm of Daniel Curtiss' Sons in the 
manufacture of woolens. Has held the office of first selectman and other minor 
town offices. Member of the House in 1868 and 1884. Always a Republican. 

Day, Edmund, Seymour, District No. 7. Republican, manufacturer ; age, 53. 
Born in West Springfield, Mass., December 12, 1831. Educated in the common 
school and Westfield academy and entered Yale College, which he left to become 
associated in business with his father and brothers at Seymour. The business was 
the manufacture of hard rubber goods, in which the firm has been largely success- 
ful. He has taken an active political part, but has repeatedly declined public 
office. Member of the House in 1875. He has served on the state central com- 
mittee for several years. At the last session he was chairman of the committee 
on Manufactures. 

DcNBAR, Edward B , Bristol, District No. 4. Democrat, Congregationalist, 
manufacturer, married; age, 43. Born in Bristol, November 1. 1842, and has 
since resided there, except four years in New York, from 1860 to 1864. Educated 
in the common school and at Williston Seminary, Easthampton, Mass. On the 
completion of his studies there, in 1860, he went to New York city, where he was 
engaged in business four years, when he returned to Bristol and accepted a posi- 
tion in his father's factory. Since the father's death, in 1872, he has been the 
financial manager of the present firm of Dunbar rothers, consisting of himself 
and. two brothers, which is largely engaged in the manufacture of clock springs. 
His father, the late Edward L. Dunbar, represented his town in the House in 1862. 
His brother, William H. Dunbar, held the same office in 1879. The present sen- 
ator. Edward B. Dunbar, has served as grand juror, assessor, registrar of voters for 
twelve years, member of the board of fire cominissionfrs for six years, being chair- 
man of the board for the past three years, and has been a director of the Bristol 
National bank since it was organized. Was a member of the House in 1869 and 
1881. Always a Democrat. 

Glover, Smith P., Newtown, District No. 15. Republican, Episcopal, mer- 
chant, married; age 48. Born in Newtown, August 16, 1837, educated there, and 
has always resided there. Is a member of the present tax commission. Member 
of the Senate in 1872, 83, and 84. Was always a Republican. 

Golden, William H., Jr., Meriden, District No. 6. Democrat, Bapti.st, me- 
chanic, married; age, 39. Born in Meriden, December 6, 1845, educated there, 
and lias always lesided there. Is employed by the ZSI. B. Co. Was member of 
the House in 1884. Voted with the Republicans until twelve years ago; since 
then has been a Democrat. 



CONN. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 9 

Maltbie, Theodore M., Granby, District No. 3. Republican, lawyer; age, 
43. Born in New York, April 29, 1842, and has resided in Granby for the last 
forty years. Educated in the public schools of Massachusetts. Served as deputy 
insurance commissioner from 1872 till 1878, and is now associated with Hon. 
William C. Case and Percy S. Bryant, under the firm name of Case, Maltbie, & 
Bryant, with an othce on State street, Hartford. Candidate for the Senate in 1873. 
Member of the House in 1870-74, and 78. Is serving the second year of his term. 

Morgan, Daniel N., Bridgeport, District No. 14. Democrat, Episcopal, bank 
president; age, 40. Born in Newtown, August 18, 1844; resided there until 1869, 
and in Bridgeport since then. Educated in the common schools, at Newtown 
academy, and Bethel Institute. At the age of sixteen he entered his father's 
store as a clerk, and remained till he attained his majority, when he assumed the 
business for a year : then selling out, and after a short time in the dry-goods line, 
was in general trade at Newtown Center under the firm name of Morgan & Booth 
three years. In 1869 he embarked in the dry-goods trade in the firm of Birdsey 
& Morgan until 1880, transacting a large business in dry-goods, carpets, and dress- 
making. He took an extensive European trip in 1876. The next year he was 
connected with the firm of wholesale grocers, Morgan, Hopson, & Co. He has 
held the positions of member of the common council in 1873-74; member of the 
board of education in 1877 ; mayor of Bridgeport in 1880 and 84; member of the 
House in 1883, serving acceptably on the committee on Finance, and has always 
been elected by handsome majorities. Is at present president of the City National 
bank of Bridgeport, and first vice-president of the Farmers and ]yrechauics' Sav- 
ing bank of Bridgeport ; member of the executive committee of the Bridgeport 
hospital, having served on the building committee and as director ; clerk of Trin- 
ity parish for twelve years and vestryman ; was Worthy Master of Masonic Lodge 
No. 104 in 1879 and 80. Has always been a Democrat, inheriting these proclivi- 
ties from his father, Hon. Ezra Morgan, who was a member of the House for three 
terms, and a trying justice at Newtown some forty years, besides holding some 
other offices of trust, among them the presidency of the First National bank of 
Bethel. Senator Morgan married, in 1868, the daughter of Hon. William A. 
Judson, who years ago was very prominent in Fairfield-county politics, serving in 
the House and Senate and holding many other public positions of honor and trust 
as a Democrat. Senator Morgan is looked upon as one of the rising young men in 
the state, for whom higher honors are still in store. 

Pember, MiLO W., Vernon, District No. 23. Republican, merchant; age, 52. 
Born in Ellington, January 16, 1833, and has resided in Vernon since twenty-one 
years of age. He was an influential member of the House in 1877-78, and 81. 
He is an active and energetic Republican. Director in the Rockville National 
bank, and has served as treasurer of the Vernon town deposit fund. He was 
reared on a farm, and now carries on a large ti-ade in woolen goods. At the last 
session he held the important position of chairman of the committee on Humane 
Institutions. 

Richardson, Milo Barnum, Salisbury, District No. 19. Democrat, no re- 
ligious preference stated, manufacturer; age, 36. Born at Lime Rock, February 
13, 1849. Educated at Rocky Dell Institute and Edwards Place school. Stock- 
bridge, Mass. He is a son of Edward Richardson, and grandson of Milo Barnum. 
Since his twenty-fifth year he has been engaged in the management of the impor- 
tant interests of the Barnum-Richardson Co., and other corporations. His name 
was on the Democratic state ticket, when only twenty-three years of age, as the 
candidate for treasurer. He served on the staff of Gov. Ingersoll with the rank 
of colonel. He has been an active and influential member of the Democratic state 
committee for ten years. He was a member of the House in 1874, and of the 
Senate in 1882-83 and 84. 

Robertson, Abr.\m Heaton, New Haven, District No. 8. Democrat, Epis- 
copal, lawyer, married; age, 34. Born in New Haven, September 25, 1850, and 
has since resided there. Graduated at Yale, class of '72, and at Columbia Law 
School, '74, Is the eldest sou of Hon. John B. Robertson, ex-mayor of New Haven, 
and is a descendant on his mother's side from Theophilus Eaton. He is a mem- 



10 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

ber of the New York bar, but has always since choosing his profession been actively 
engaged in practice at New Haven as a member of the legal firm of Wright, Kob- 
ertson, & Hotchkiss ; has had a large experience and practice in corporation law, 
though he has not made it entirely a specialty. He is a vestryman in Trinity 
church. New Haven, and a director in the Young Men's Institute, the Oppenheim 
Manufacturing Co., the Automatic Coal Boiler and Engine Co., and the New 
Haven Co-operation Savings Fund and Loan Association. Served as an alderman 
in 1877-78-79 and 80 ; was a member of the House in 1880 and 82. In the former 
year served on the committee on Railroads, and in ihe latter on the committee on 
the Judiciary. Always a Democrat. 

Smith, Asa, Norwalk, Disti-ict No. 13. Democrat, manufacturer of pottery 
ware; age, 58. Born in Norwalk, October 23, 1827. Educated in the common 
school and academy. Is treasurer and general manager of the A. E. Smith's Sons' 
Pottery Co., and director in the Norwalk Savings Society, and Norwalk Fire In- 
surance Co. Has served as warden of the borough and filled nearly all the local 
offices. Has been Grand ]SIaster of Masons and Gii'and High Priest of the Royal 
Arch Masons of Connecticut. Member of the House in 186U, and served on the 
Railroad committee. Was the first Democrat ever elected to the legislature from 
Norwalk. He entertains pronounced Democratic principles. 

Stanton, Stiles Trumbull, District No. 9. Republican, journalist. Is a 
native ot'Stouington, and a member of one of its oldest and most respected fami- 
lies. He was prepared for Yale College at the New Haven Collegiate Institute, 
but adopted journalism instead of taking a college course. He is a brilliant and 
versatile writer, readily inclined to the humorous. He served on the brigade staff 
of the Connecticut N. G. from 1875 to 1878. He was secretary of the Republican 
state committee in 1880. He was executive secretary to Gov. Andrews. Mem- 
ber of the House in 1881 and 82. During his first year in the Senate he served as 
chairman on the committee on military affairs, and on executive nominations. 

Tatem. James B., Woodstock, District No. 16. Republican, no religious pref- 
erence stated, manufacturer, married; age, 49. Born in Phcenix, R. I., April 9, 
1836. Has resided in Southbridge, Brookfield, and Charlton, Mass., and in 
Woodstock Valley for the past twenty -seven years. He was left an orphan at the 
age of fourteen years, without money and poor ; what there is of him is self-made, 
and shows what energy, natural ability, industry, and tact can accomplish when 
accompanied by good impulses and strong determination. He was educated at 
the common scliool, and has held the various town offices, and has been deputy 
sheriff of Windham county for the last ten years. Was a member of the House 
in 1878, and served on the Judiciary committee. Has always been a Republican. 

Turner, Edward T., Waterbury, District No. 5. Republican, Congregational 
preference, if any, dry-goods merchant by occupation, married; age, 50. Born in 
Litchfield (Northfield Society) and has resided for the most part in Waterbury. 
Educated in the common schools, and lias held various local city offices. Is serv- 
ing his second year in the Senate. Always a Republican. 

AValsh, Robert Jay, Greenwich. District No. 12. Republican, believes in 
fundamental morality or natural religion, the form of which being secondary, law- 
yer, married ; age, 30. Born in Lewisboro', N. J., August, 1854. Resided for a 
time at Ridgefield. Educated at the High School Institute, Ridgefield, under a 
a private tutor, and at the Connecticut Normal school. Has held the offices of 
town counsel and borough attorney for the past three years. Always a Repub- 
lican. 



CONN. (iENERAL ASSEMBLY. 11 



HOUSE. 

The House of Repi'esentatives is composed of 249 members. Of these, 159 are 
Republicans and 90 are Democrats, giving a Republican majority of 69. From 
the returns received we glean the following facts in relation to the members : The 
oldest member is James E. Stillmaii. of North Colebrook, who is 72 ; George 
Williams, of New London, and James Tiffany, of Barkhamsted, have each passed 
the age of 70. The youngest member is Thomas H. Allen, of Sprague, 22, bonl 
September 3, 1862; Mayo S. Purple, of Chatham, is next younger, 23, born July 
28, 1861; Charles S. Tuttle, of Wolcott, comes next, being 24 years old. There 
are thirteen members who are between 20 and 30, forty-seven between 30 and 40, 
seventy-two between 40 and 50, fifty-one between 50 and 60, thirty-four between 
60 and 70, and four who are over 70 years of age. 

All but thirty-four were born in the state, and ninety-eight were born in the 
towns which they represent. Of those born out of the state, nine were born in 
New York, eight in Massachusetts, five in Ireland, three in England, two in Rhode 
Island, two in Vermont, and one each in France, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Oregon, Scotland, 
and Pennsylvania. Forty-nine have had previous legislative experience, two of thftir 
number in the upper branch. Seventeen received a collegiate education, and the 
remainder were educated in the common, private, high schools and academies of 
the state. There are twenty-four single men in the House, and four others who 
have been married and lost their wives by death. 

In religious belief or preference, there are sixty-six Congregationalists, twenty- 
four Episcopalians, twenty-three Methodists, eleven Baptists, e!even who style 
themselves simply " Protestants," seven Catholics, three Liberals, two Presby- 
terians, two Universalists, one Adventist, and fifty-eight who do not report any 
religious denominalional preference. Besides these, there is one who believes that 
"God is in his works and he who labors prays;" another who confesses himself 
to be a "'sinner and heretic ; " one who believes in the golden rule; and one who 
believes in common-sense religion. 

By profession or occupation, there are sixty-five farmers, and one each who 
combines with this business the occupation of drover, seed-grower, dealer in leaf 
tobacco, fisher, gardener and florist, merchant and mechanic, machinist, mechanic, 
miller, milk-dealer, stock-breeder, speculator, stone-mason, teaclier, and undertaker; 
eight who combine farming with the lumber business, and four with mercantile 
pursuits. There are twenty-nine manufacturers, twenty-five merchants, ten law- 
yers, four carpenters, four mechanics, three machinists, three clergymen, two bank 
presidents, two builders, two clerks, two contractors, two foremen, two lumbermen, 
two salesmen, two station agents, two superintendents, two secretaries and super- 
intendents, four with no occupation, six who have retired from business, and one 
each who follow the following avocations : Agent, artist, auctioneer, baker, 
blacksmith, brass-founder, burnisher, butcher, carpenter, cashier, clergyman and 
teacher, clock-maker, druggist, fish-culturist, granite-dealer, journalist, landlord, 
liquor-dealer, manufacturer and mechanic, manufacturer and miller, paymaster, 
prof'es»or of law, real-estate dealer, tobacco-grower, and wholesale meat and express 
business. 



Abbe, Henry, Enfield. Republican, tobacco-buyer ; age, 63. Born in Enfield 
in 1822. His ancesters were among the first settlers of the town, then a part of 
Springfield, Mass. He has lived on the valuable farm in the center of the town 
on which his father and grandfather lived, but which he gave to his only son on 
Thanksgiving day, 1884. His grandfather was sheriff of Hartford county for 
twenty years. He early had the advantages of the common school, and at the age 
of fourteen was sent to Wilbraham academy to fit for Middletown College ; at the 
age of seventeen was elected by the faculty as a teacher at Wilbraham, and fol- 
lowed this profession successfully for eighteen years, serving in the meantime on 



12 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

the board of education and as school suj^erintendent for Enfield. Was alsoelected 
to other town offices, assessor, board of relief, etc., but never sought office. Suc- 
ceeding well as a farmer for about fifteen years, he then went into the purchasing 
of seed-leaf tobacco, in which business he continues. He resides about fifty rods 
south of the old homestead, and has lately erected one of the finest residences in 
town, commanding a fine view. Was formerly a Whig, but has been a Republican 
since that party was formed. 

Allkn, Charles N., Putnam. Democrat, no religious preference, salesman, 
married; age, 33. Born in Union, Jan. 25, 1852, and resided for a time at Wood- 
stock. Has held many local offices. Was a member of the House in 1883, and 84, 
serving the last year on the committee on Incorporations. This is his third term, 
having been elected by a handsome majority in a strong Republican town. He 
was always a Democrat. 

Allen, Eugene E., Goshen. Republican. 

Allen, Thomas H., Sprague. Republican, no religious preference, woolen 
manufacturer, single; age, 22. Born in Hanover, September 3, 1862. Educated 
one year at East Greenwich academy, and three years at Highland Military 
academy, graduating with the rank of captain. 

Ambleu, Samuel S., Bethel. Republican. Congregationalist. hat-manufacturer, 
married ; age, 4(3. Boru in Ridgefield, May 22, 1839, and has lived in Bethel since 
1860. Educated in the common schools. He early learned the hat trade, and has 
been engaged in that business since 1867 with George M. Cole, under the firm of 
Cole & Ambler. He served in Co. G, 23d Conn. Vols., and was taken pris- 
oner at Brashear City, La., but released on parole after ten days. He is a member 
of the G. A. R., and the F. and A. Masonic Lodge, He has served two terms as 
selectman and four years as town treasurer. He is a strong temperance man (not 
the St. John style, though), and was always a Republican. 

Andrew, George S., Naugatuck. Democrat, Episcopal, merchant and farmer, 
married ; age, 52. Born in Orange, January 29, 1833, and has lived in Naugatuck 
since six years old. Educated at the common school and at Naugatuck high 
school. Has served as postmaster, assessor, and town treasurer. Is at present 
member of the board of education. 

Arnold, Charles H., Manchester. Republican, Protestant, engaged in the 
carriage business, married ; age, 51. Born in East Hartford in 1833. Is at pres- 
ent registrar of voters and chairman of the town committee. Member of the 
House in 1869. He was always a Republican. 

Atwell, Curtls C, Durham. Republican. 

B 

Barber, Clarence H., Torrington. Republican, Congregationalist, clergy- 
man, married ; age, 32. Born at Canton Center, February 6, 1853, and has resided 
at Barkhanisted, Canton and Torringford. Attended the high school at Collins- 
ville ; graduated from the Connecticut Literary Institution in 1873, from Amherst 
College in 1877, and from Hartford Theological Seminary in 1880. Was ordained 
at Torringford, June 17, 1880, and has since continued as pastor of the Torringford 
church. Has had the oversight of all the schools in Torrington as acting school 
visitor. Was always a Republican. 

Barber, Peleg S., Stonington. Republican, Baptist, real estate dealer, mar- 
ried ; age, 62. Born in Wickford, North Kingston, R. I., April 29, 1823. Re- 
ceived a common-sciiool education, and followed manufacturing from 1838 to 1848. 
The next year he went to California via Panama, and spent three years in the gold 
mines of Grass Valley, near Nevada City. Was married to a Stonington lady in 
1856, and has resided there since, engaged in the real-estate business. Has served 
as notary public, assessor, member of the board of relief, school committee, treas- 
urer school district No. 18, and director in the Pawcatuck National bank. Has 
always been an active Republican, but has never sought office. 



CONX. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 13 

Baldwin, Rollin D., Colebrook. Democrat, Protestant, merchant, married ; 
age, 37. Born in Sandisfield, Mass., July 10, 1848, and lias since resided there 
and at Colebrook. Educated in the common schools. Has served as selectman 
five years and school visitor two years. 

Barnes, Adna N., Burlington. Democrat, no religious preference stated, farmer 
and lumberman, married; age, 40. Born in Burlington in 1845, and has always 
resided there. His opportunities for schooling were limited to four months in sum- 
mer till ten years old, and then to winter terms only till sixteen. He now owns a 
fine farm of four hundi-ed acres, on which he has a herd of Swiss stock, in which he 
deals, including some thoroughbred registered animals, four dwelling-houses, a 
large saw-mill, cider-mill and distillery. He earned all this property himself ex- 
cept the saw-mill, which was left him by his father in 1876. He has always been 
a Democrat. 

Barnes, George A., Sherman. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer, mar- 
ried; age, 45. Born in Sherman. March 4, 1840, and has always resided there. 
Educated in Sherman and Danbury academies. Has served on the board of edu- 
cation, and as selectman six years. Member of the House in 1879. Always a 
Republican. 

Beach, Isaac W., Bristol. Republican, Congregationalist, merchant, married; 
age, 50. Born in Litchfield, and has resided in Bristol for twenty-five years. 
Educated in the common schools ; was a classmate of Senator Turner of the 5th 
district. Was formerly a clock-maker. Served in the army in Co. I, 25th Con- 
necticut Vols., being promoted to first lieutenant after the battle of Irish Bend. 
Had charge of the company during the whole of the time it was in active service, 
the captain being in the hospital ; never lost a day's service or missed a battle 
which his regiment engaged in. Member of the G. A. R., and holds the office of 
senior vice-commander. Been a Mason for twenty-four years. Has been a trial 
justice for many years, and been called upon for the settlement of many estates. 
Has served as justice of the peace, postmaster, constable, foreman of fire company, 
selectman, and assessor. His father was Gen. I. C. Beach of Litchfield, and he 
has four brothers and four sisters; one of the former is U. S. surveyor of the port 
of Wheeling, W. Va. Is associated with his son, R. O. Beach, in the meat and 
general marketmen's business, under firm of I. W. Beach & Son, and is doing a 
flourishing business. Cast his first vote for Fremont, and was elected in a strong 
Democratic town by a handsome majority, leading Blaine by forty votes. 

Beers, Victory C, Cornwall. Democrat, no religious preference stated, farmer 
and dealer in tobacco, married; age, 52. Born in Cornwall, September 25, 1832, 
and has since resided there. Educated in the common schools and at Alger In- 
stitute. Served as chairman of board of selectmen from 1876 to 1879. and town 
treasurer from 1880 till the present time. Was a member of the Democratic state 
central committee from 186G to 1869. Member of the Senate in 1870, serving as 
chairman of the Military committee. Always a Democrat. 

Benjamin, Edwin, Preston. First and last a Democrat, attends Baptist church, 
farmer at present, married; age, 51. Born in Preston, September 4, 1833, and 
educated there. On his mother's side is a relative of Gen. Greene of Revolution- 
ary fame. His paternal grandfather also served his country in its later struggle. 
His family were among the oldest settlers of the town, and have been law-abiding 
citizens, enjoying the confidence of their townsmen. In Edwin's early manhood 
he spent most of the time on the sea in the merchant service, visiting many of the 
principal ports in Asia and South America, and some in Africa. In the whaling 
business he has several times doubled Cape Horn, and went as far in the north- 
west as the average of vessels go. On one occasion, with two brothers, his vessel 
■was burned by the rebel Shenandoah, and he was sent to San Francisco with the 
crews of eighteen vessels, and thence home. He may be said to belong to a mari- 
time family, as every uncle and brother were sailors. His oldest brother, Captain 
George G., made the quickest voyage with the largest catch, in oil, on record. Has 
served on school committee, justice of the peace, selectman, etc. Member of the 
House in 1875 and 1879. 



14 BIitURAPHICAL SKETCHES 

Bknnett, Charles, Canterbury, Republican, Methodist preference, mechanic, 
married ; age, 63. Jjorn in Canterbury, July 22, 1822, and resided there princi- 
pally. Educated in the common school. Has served as first selectman. Has 
before served in the House. 

Bevaxs, Ira Nichols, Plymouth. Republican, Baptist, superintendent, mar- 
ried ; age, 60. Born in Trumbull, July 5, 1825, and has resided in Trumbull, 
Monroe, Bethel, Waterbury, and Plymouth. Educated in the common school. 
Previous to the war he spent four j'ears in Texas and six in New Orleans and the 
Mississippi valley, returning April 12, 1860, two days before the firing on Fort 
Sumter. During the war he was engaged in the manufacture of clock-springs in 
company with Eli Terry, Jr., a*^i Terry ville, selling out in 1865 and spending the 
following winter in New Orleans. In 1866 the Seth Thomas Clock Co. purchased 
the spring business of Mr. Terry, and he entered their employ as superintendent 
of that department, and has been in their employ for the past eighteen years. Was 
formerly a Whig. 

Bradley, Charles W., Tolland. Republican, Methodist, farmer, married; 
age, 39. Born in Somers and has lived in Tolland twenty -two years. Educated 
in the common schools. Has served as member of the board of relief and registrar 
of voters. Always a Republican. 

Bradley, Henry E., Washington. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer, 
married; age, 40. Born in Roxbury, January 22, 1845, and has lived in Washing- 
ton during the past six years. Educated in the common school and at Bacon 
academy, Colchester. 

Bradley, Jxtstin, East Haven. Democrat, Episcopal, farmer, married; age, 
70. Born in East Haven, February 28, 1815, educated there and has always 
resided there. 

Bradley, Samuel AV.. Canaan. Democrat, no religious preference stated? 
secretary and superintendent of the Hunt's Lyman Iron Company, married; age, 
38. Born in Cornwall, July 20, 1847, and has resided in Canaan since seven years 
of age. Educated in the common and select schools, and received a thorough 
business training. He has been secretary and superintendent of the H. L. Iron Co. 
for fifteen years. Was a member of the House in 1879 and 1882. He claims to 
be a " Horace Greeley Democrat " and believes in the high-tariff doctrine. 

Bristoll, Thomas P., Brookfield. Democrat. Episcopal, farmer, married; 
age, 39. Born in Brookfield, September 7, 1845, educated there, and always 
resided there. Has never sought or held public office of an}^ importance, 

Bronson, Homer D., Beacon Falls. Republican. 

Brown, Edward M., Colchester. Republican, Methodist, paper-manufac- 
turer, married ; age, 40. Born at Willimantic in 1844, and has resided at 
Comstock Bridge since 1870. Educated at Greenwich Seminary and Eastman's 
Business College. At the age of 16 he entered the army, re-enlisted, and served 
during the entire war. After leaving college he entered business and became very 
successful, through energy and perseverance. Taking up his residence at Com- 
stock Bridge in 1870, which consisted at that time of but three or four dwelling- 
hou.ses, he has had the pleasure of seeing a busy little hamlet spring up about him. 
Post-office, school and church services are now among, the improvements, due 
chiefl}' to his undivided and unceasing eifort. He has held the office of postmaster, 
and several others of a local character. Always a Republican. 

Brown, Enoch Burrows, Groton, Democrat, no religious preference, 
stock-breeder and farmer, married; age, 52. Born in Stonington, June 26, 1833, 
His father was Elias Brown, attorney at law and graduate of Brown University; 
his mother was Mary L. Burrows, daughter of Enoch Burrows of Stonington. 
Educated in the common schools and at East Greenwich Academy. On leaving 
school he entered the employ of Everett & Brown, New York, shipping and com- 
mission' merchants. In 1854, he went to Europe; thence to India, also traveling 
there; thence to China, where he remained in different localities for two years; 
engaged in the capture of the barrier forts on the Canton river ; thence to Califor- 
nia, where he remained six months, Panama two months, Cuba, and home. In 



CONN. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 15 

1858, he was engaged with Gov. Todd of Ohio in coal mining, and afterwards in 
the foundry business in Cleveland. He was married in 1862, in Princeton, N. J., 
to Helen Agalice Hyde, daughter of .ohn Hyde, one of the first cotton-manufac- 
turers of Connecticut, residing at Mystic. Removed thither and engaged in the 
breeding of horses and Jersey cattle. Has acted as general agent of the Lantern 
Hill Silex Co. and of Mallory & Williams in the same business. Member of the 
House in 1883 and 1884. Secretary of the commission on the Buckingham statue 
in 1884. Was always a Democrat, and shall act with that party on all party 
measures, provided the Republicans do not introduce men and measures more sat- 
isfactory to him, in which case he declares he shall not hesitate to support them. 

Brown, Frederick J., Waterbury. Democrat, no religious preference stated, 
no occupation, married ; age 29, Born in Waterbury, September 30, 1855, and 
has always resided there. Educated at Yale. Served in the common council and 
on the board of education. Member of the House in 1883 ; was the only member 
of the Finance committee who opposed the abatement of the tax of the Connecticut 
Valley R. li., which was subsequently vetoed by the governor ; was also the author 
of the " Brown amendment" to the bill for the reduction of railroad taxes, which 
was passed over the report of the committee, and was also vetoed by the governor. 
Is at present a member of the Democratic state central committee, and is a life- 
long Democrat. 

Bryant, William, Harwinton, Republican. 

BuLLARD, Randolph L.. Pomfret. Republican, Cougregatioualist prefer- 
ence, merchant, married; age. 41. Born in Eastford, November 25, 1843, and 
has successively resided in AVethersfield and Hampton before removing to 
Pomfret. Educated at Eastford, and completed at Wethersfield academy. For 
twelve years was professor in music and dancing. For the past ten years he 
has been engaged in mercantile business at Abingtou, doing a very extensive 
( ommission business in marketing butter, cheese, and produce for the Provi- 
dence market. He has served as postmaster and justice of the peace. Is a 
reliable citizen and was always a Republican. 

Burleson, Allen P., Griswold. Republican. 

BuRNHAM Henry C, Lyme. Republican, Protestant, merchant, married; 
age, 41, Born at East Haddam, August 6, 1844, and has lived in Lyme for ten 
years. He was educated in the public and private schools of his native town 
and for several years was employed in a manufacturing business there. Sub- 
sequently, he became a special agent of the Mutual Life Insurance Company 
of New York, holding it till 1874, when he engaged in mercantile business, 
and is the proprietor of the leading dry-goods and grocery store at Hadlyme. 
He has also been largely engaged in the wood and timbertrade. He is a wide- 
awake and public-spirited business man and has given his aid to every enter- 
prise for the advancement of the interests of his town and especially the vil- 
lage in which he lives. He was largely instrumental in securing the location 
of the successful manufacturing business of H. E. Taylor & Co.in Hadlyme; 
and was active and intluential in securing the establishment of a steam ferry 
at Hadlyme; he is a director in the company managing this ferry. Politi- 
cally, he has been an active and hard-working Republican, but has never sought 
office for himself. He possesses all the qualities for a useful legislator. He 
was always a consistent Republican. 

Burr, Randolph S., Killingworth. Democrat. 

Butler, Charles H., Oxford. Republican, Episcopal, merchant, married; 
age, 41. Born in Seymour, July 21, 1844, and has lived in Oxford since 1858. 
Was a member ot Company H, 2d Connecticut Heavy Artillery, and was 
wounded in the arm at Cold Harbor, June 1, 1864, and lost a leg at Cedar Creek, 
October 19, 1864. Has been for the past fifteen years and is now postmaster and 
town treasurer; also treasurer of St. Peter's Episcopal parish, and secretary and 
treasurer of the Oxford Agricultural Society. Served as doorkeeper of the 
House from 1868 to 1872 inclusive, and of the Senate in 1873. Was always a 
Republican. 



16 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

Buxton, William A., Ashford. Democrat, no religious preference stated, 
farmer, married ; age, 41. Boru iu Ashford (Tlietford Society) June 14, 1844, 
and ha? since resided at Hartford and Stafford Springs. Educated in the com- 
mon schools. His father, Samuel Buxton, was born at Smithtield, R. I,, March 
30. 1815 ; and his mother, Kuth Ann BufFum, was born at the same place October 
29, 1818 ; they were married there, February 1, 1838, came to Ashford and lived on 
a farm ever since. At the age of 21, William A. left home and engaged in 
lumbering for a number of years; then in the meat business at Stafford Springs, 
selling out on account of his health. Was an attendant at the Hartford Retreat 
for awhile, and in the employ or the Adams Express Company at Hartford. 
Then returned to Stafford Springs and engaged in the fish and oyster business. 
W^as married to Miss Sara A. Smith of Ashford, December 9, 1871, and returned 
to their native town and purchased a farm, where they now live. Is engaged 
in farming and lumbering, and has erected a fine set of buildings entire. He 
has alwavs been a Democrat. 



Cady, Lambert W., Somers. Republican, no religious preference, black- 
smith, married; age, 39. Born in Warren, Mass., January 17, 1846, and for a 
time resided in Lockwood, N. J. Educated in the common school. 

Camp, Daniel, Newtown. Democrat, Episcopal, dealer in hardware, stoves, 
etc., married ; age, 49. Born in Newtown, February, 1836. Educated in the com- 
mon schools. Has served as grand juror, constable, registrar of voters, and com- 
mander Post 46, G. A. R. Was a Republican up to 1872. 

Capen, George F., Bloomfield. Democrat, engaged in stock dealing and 
breeding, raising and buying tobacco, etc., married; age, 38. Born iu Hart- 
ford, September 30, 1846, and has always resided in the two towns. Educated 
in the Hartford public schools. 

Carey, George L., Canterbury. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer* 
married; age, 42. Born in Canterbury, October 12, 1842, educated there and 
always resided there. Served three years in the 1st Connecticut Cavalry. 
Mernber of Sedgwick Post, G. A. R., of Norwich. Served as constable, justice 
of the peace, and member of the board of relief. Member of the House in 1884. 
Always a Republican. 

Carroll, John, Middletown. Democrat. 

Carter, Calvin A., Waterbury. Democrat. Member of the House in 1883. 

Carter, Calvin H.. Waterbury. Democrat, lawyer; age, 55. Born in 
Waterbury, May 19, 1829. Graduated from Yale, class' of '51, and subseqently 
studied law in the Yale law school. He began the practice of law in 1853, and 
served as postmaster two years, from 1861 to 1863. In 1859 he was clerk of 
the state Senate. He is a writer for the press and a lyceuiu lecturer of ability. 
Member of the House in 1884. 

Chapman, Edwin P., North Stonington. Republican, no religious pref- 
erence, merchant and lumber-dealer, married; age, 50. Born in North Ston- 
ington, September 26, 1834, and resided for a time at Sterling. Educated in the 
common schools. Member of the House in 1884. Always a Republican. 

Charter, Irving W., East Haddam. Republican, no religious preference, 
farmer, married ; age, 41. Born in Ellington, February 14, 1844. Educated in 
Ellington and Rockville. Served three j^ears in the 14th Conn. Vols. 

Cheney, Harry G., Manchester. Republican. 

Clark, Elias T., Woodbridge. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer and 
seed-grower, married; age, 65. Boru in Orange, Nov. 15, 1819, and has resided 
iu Woodbridge for forty years. Educated in the common schools. Has always 
refused public office and only accepted the nomination for member of the House 
as it was urged upon him for the good of the party of Woodbridge, which, 
though a strong Republican town, was carried by the Democrats in 1883 by a 
large majority. Has alwa3^s been a Republican. 



CONN. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 17 

Clark, Henry L., East Granby. Democrat, Con^regatioualist, farmer, mar- 
ried; age, 41. Boru in East Granby, February 20, 1844; educated there and has 
always resided there. Voh;utarily furnished a substitute in the late war pre- 
vious to the draft. Has served as assessor, acting school visitor, registrar of 
electors, and clerk of school district and church society. 

Clark, George M., Haddam. Republican. 

Clarke, Sylvester W., Chester. Republican, member of the Congrega- 
tional church, farmer, married ; age, 7U. Born in Chester, August 5, 1814, 
and has resided there the most of the time. He has served his town as select- 
man, constable, commissioner of highways, and on the board of relief. He has 
been a Republican since that party was formed. 

CoE, Cyrus, Middletield. Republican, Protestant, farmer, married; age, 60. 
Born in Middletown (Middlefield Society). Educated in the common schools, 
private schools, and Durham academy. His father, Curtis Coe, was an old- 
line Democrat; also his maternal grandfather, Joshua Stow, who was a noted 
man in his day. Mr. Stow was author of the article in the state constitution 
which secured complete religious toleration, thus placing Connecticut in ad- 
vance of the times in enlightened legislation. [See History of Middlefield.] He 
was judge of the county court for many 3'ears and postmaster for nearly thirty 
years; also served in both branches of the legislature many terms and was a 
man of large influence. Cyrus Coe in early life taught school in Middlefield 
and New London. In 1849 he went to California via Cape Horn, and remained 
ten years, principally engaged as ship-joiner in San Francisco. During that 
time he visited Oregon, Puget Sound, and the southern gold mines of Califor- 
nia. Returned to Middlefield in 1859 and has since followed farming. Was 
married in 1861. Has always acted with the Republican party. 

Collins, Frank P., Columbia. Democi'at, no religious preference, grocery- 
man, married; age, 33. Born in South Coventry, August 11, 1852, but has 
resided in Columbia most of the time. Educated in the common and select 
schools. Has seived as town treasurer. Has always been a good Democrat. 

Collyer, Vixcent, Darien. Republican, Episcopal, artist, married; age, 
60. Born in New York city, and has resided sixteen years in Darien. He 
studied in the free schools of New York, Rand's Academy, the Medical College 
of New York and National Academy of Design, of which society he was elected 
au associate member in 1851. 'in company with the artists Kensell, Casilear, 
Falconer and Hubbard, he organized the Artists' Fund Society of New York 
in 1859. L)urin^ the war he organized the Christian Commission which per- 
formed such useful service to the soldiers in field and hospital, and was one of 
the first to receive and care for the refugee freedmen and organized a body of 
secret service scouts, all with no compensation for himself. Was secretary of 
the Merchants' Relief committee in New York after the draft riots in 1863, 
and assisted in caring for those who lost property and recovered from the city 
pay for the poor negroes for all they lost. Organized the Indian Peace Com- 
mission in 1868 and was appointed an Indian commissioner by President Grant. 
Visited the fever stricken southern cities in 1873 at his own expense, and made 
liberal contributions to the sick and suftering. Member of the House in 1877- 
79 and 80. In the former year was chairman of committee on federal relations; 
in 1879 chairman of committee on humane institutions and debenture ; in 1880 
chairman of committee on education and debenture, and member of committee 
on reduction ot railroad fares and freights. Always a Republican. 

CoLTON Marshall A., Granby. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer, 
married ; age, 55. Born in North Granby, May 6, 1830, and has always resided 
there. Educated in the common school and academy. Is deacon of the Con- 
gregational church and has served as selectman four years. Never changed 
his political belief 

COMSTOCK, Charles W., Montville. Democrat, Congregationalist, lawyer, 
single ; age, 27. Boru at Montville, October 9, 1857, and always resided there. 
Educated at Norwich free academy. Has served as justice of the peace anc| 



18 BIO(iRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

chairman of the Democratic town committee. Has alwaj'S held the same 
political belief as now. 

Converse, Frank H., Thompson. Republican, Baptist, farmer (for- 
merly a book-keepei"), married; age, 42. Born at Thompson in May, 1843, 
educated tliere, and has always resided there. At the age of 18 he enlisted in 
the 18th Connecticut Vols., and served with the regiment till May 15, 1864, 
when he was badly wounded at the battle of New Market, receiving a gun-shot 
in the side and left fore-arm, losing the use of the arm at the elbow. Some 
four years later the ball was extracted from his side near the spine by an opera- 
tion at ihe Massaclmsetts General Hospital. Engaged in book-keeping after 
the war ard was with the Grosvenor Dole C^'. about three years, till obliged to 
resign on account of health. Has served as justice of the peace, registrar of 
voters, assessor, etc. Member of the House in 18G9. Always a Republican. 

CooGAN, Edward D., Windsor Locks. Democrat. 

CoRHiN, Philip, New Britain. Republican,- Congregatioualist, manufac- 
turer, married ; age, 61. Born in Willington, October 26, 1824, and has lived iu 
New Britain, since about 1844; educated in the public schools. Mr. Corbin is 
foreman of the large manufacturing establishment, now incorporated by special 
charter as the P. & F. Corbin Co. He is president and continues actively 
engaged in the business. He has been a wide traveler and close observer in 
this country, having visited California soon after the completion of the Union 
& Central l acific railroad, and again soon after the southern route was opened. 
He has served as water commissioner almost continuously since the construc- 
tion of the New Biitain Water- Works and as warden of the borough in 1867 
and 1868. He has been a Republican since the party was formed; before that, 
he was a Whig. 

Cornwall, Andrew, Portland. Democrat. 

Cornwall, Edward T., Cheshire. Republican. 

Coucii, Ebenezer p., Stonington. Republican, Congregatioualist, engaged 
in no business at present, single; age, 44. Boru in North Bridgewater, now 
Brockton, Mass.; has resided in Brooklyn, N. Y., and Philadelphia; educated 
at Andover and Cambridge colleges. Member of the House in 1883 and 1884; 
the latter year was chairman of the committee on engrossed bills and member 
of the temperance committee. Always a Republican. 

Cox, Haschal F., Brooklyn. Republican, Methodist, farmer, married; age, 
49. Born at North Gage, N. Y., in 1S36. Educated in the common school and 
academy. Came to Connecticut in 1861; was an attendant in the Retreat for 
the Insane, afterwards an officer in the state-prison. Removed to Iowa in 
1865 and engaged in farming for seven years and held the office of township 
trustee. Returned in the spring of 1872, and was an officer at the state-prison 
till August, 1873, and resigned to accept the jailership of the Windham county 
jail, which he held for seven and a half years; resigned, March, 1881, and has 
since been engaged in farming. Has served as grand juror and on the board 
of relief. 

Crofut, Andrew J., Norwalk. Republican, Baptist, hat-manufacturer, 
married; age, 52. Born in Danbury, May 8, 1833. Educated iu the common 
schools. Is member of tlie firm of Crofut & Knapp, which consists of himself, 
James H. Knapp, James K. Crofut, and P. N. Knapp, with factories in South 
Norwalk and salesroom at 113 Greene street. N. Y. Has served as city coun- 
cilman. Was always a Republican. i 

Crittenden, Harvey C, Madison . Republican, Congregationalist, farmer 
married; age, 64. Born in Madison, January, 1821, educated there and has always 
resided there. Has served as justice of the peace, constable, on the board of 
relief, first and second selectman and collector of taxes. Was captain of the 
Madison Independent Military Co. Always a Republican. 

Curry, Francis F., Windsor. Republican, no religious preference, cigar 
manutacturer, married; age, 52. Born in Philadelphia in 1833; resided in 
Hartford fifteen years and in Windsor fifteen. Educated in the common school, 
and was always a Republican. 



CONN. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 19 

D 

Darlin, George W., East Hartford. Democrat, Cougregationalist, mer- 
chant, married ; age, 59. Born in Rupert, Vt. Educated in Vermont and 
Massachusetts. Is a dealer in groceries, provisions, meats, vegetahles, etc., 
established in 1846. Has served as member of the board of relief for six years. 
Member of the House in 1884, 

Davis, Calvin S., East Lyme. Democrat, no religious preference, engaged 
in the granite business, married; age, 37. Born in Waterford, September 14, 
1847, and has resided in New Loudon, Norwich, Richmond, Va. Has served on 
board of school visitors nine years, school committee two years, school treasurer 
one year, clerk of school district, Waterford, two years, D. D. G. M., I. O. O. F., 
five years. "Was always a Democrat. 

Davis, Charles Henry Stanley, Meriden. Democrat, Episcopal, physi- 
cian, married; age, 45. Born in Goshen, March 2, 1840. His father. Dr. T. F. 
Davis, practiced medicine in Goshen, Litchfield, and Plymouth, and in 1850 
removed to Meriden. Dr. C. H. S. Davis received his early education in the 
public schools, and, under a private tutor, pursued the collegiate studies of the 
freshman and sophomore years. He attended lectures at the Bellevue Medical 
school one vear and two years in the medical department of the New York 
University, where he was graduated. He then pursued a course of study in 
the medical department of the University of Maryland, and attended lectures 
at the Harvard Medical school and succeeded his father in the practice of his 
profession. In 1872, he spent seven months in Eux'ope in travel and study, 
visiting England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland. 
In 1870 he published a history of Wallingford and Meriden. The material for 
this work was obtained by him before his twentieth year. He has also written 
a work on •' The Voice as a Musical Instrument," published by Oliver Ditson 
& Co., Boston, and a work entitled " The Classification, Training, and Educa- 
tion of the Feeble-Minded, Imbecile, and Idiotic." For four years he edited 
for the American News Company, the " Index to Periodical Literature.'* In 
compiling this publication he" had to examine, arrange, and classify every mouth 
the contents of one hundred and forty weekly and monthly publications, and 
this while attending at his office and in his calls from twenty to thirty patients 
every day. And yet he found time to prepare papers for the Scientific Associa- 
tion, contribute articles to medical journals and the daily press, attend to a large 
correspondence, and write two books. He is a member of the Meriden City 
Medical Society, New Hav{!n County Medical Society, Connecticut Medical 
Society, Societe d' Anthrojiologie of Paris, Connecticut Historical Society, New 
England Historic-Genealogical Society, Wisconsin Historical Society, Penn- 
sylvania Historical Society, Buftalo and Chicago Historical Societies. In 1863, 
in connection with the Rev. Dr. Nathan Brown, formerly missionary to Assam, 
Rev. Wm. M. Scott, now missionary to Burmah, Rev. Fred James and others, 
he organized the American Philological Society, and was its first vice-president 
and afterwards corresponding secretary. He is a Knight Templar, Odd Fellow, 
Knight of Honor, Knight of Pythias, Knight of Labor, member of the Order 
of Chosen Friends, Royal Arcanum, Ancient Order of United Workmen, 
Order of United American Mechanics, Ancient Order of Foresters, Benevolent 
and Protective Order of Elks. He has been a member of the Meriden school 
board for thirteen years, was acting school visitor five years, serving as chair- 
man three years. He is also a member of the high school committee, and sec- 
retary and one of the founders of the Meriden Scientific Association, a flour- 
ishing society with upwards of 100 members. He has one of the finest private 
libraries in the state, of over 6,000 volumes, and has nearly ready for the press 
a work entitled, "The Unseen World, or Ghosts and Other Illusions and Delu- 
sions." He was married in 1870 to Carrie E., daughter of Geo. W. Harris, and 
has one son, Henry Winter Davis. He had always voted the Republican ticket 
until 1874, when he was elected member of the House by the Democratic Lib- 
eral party, being the first Democratic representative sent to the legislature 
from Meriden in over twenty years. He served as chairman of the committee 



20 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

on Education. At the last election, he was nominated judge of probate by the 
People's party, but declined and was nominated as representative by the Demo- 
cratic party and indorsed by the People's party. 

Davoll, Joseph G., Lebanon. Republican, Methodist, farmer, married? 
age, 51. Born in Portsmouth, R. I., and has also resided in Providence and 
Warren, R. I., and iu Norwich, Windham, and Columbia, Conn. Educated in 
the common school. Has served as grand juror, on the school committee, and 
in all the offices which the church had to confer. Always a Republican. 

Day, John W., Marlborough. Democrat, Methodist, merchant, manufac- 
turer and farmer, married; age, 40. Born in Marlboro', Mass., March 9, 1836, 
and has resided in Hartford and Manchester. Educated in the common 
schools and at "Wilbraham (Mass.) academy. Served as constable for twenty 
years. Always a Democrat. 

Deming, Erastus A., Sharon, Democrat, Episcopal, farmer, married; age, 
57. Born in Sharon, August 9, 1828, educated there and has always resided 
there. Member of the House in 1858 and 1879. Always a Democrat. 

Dibble, Albert B., Westbrook. Rei^ublican, no religious preference, en- 
gaged in Ashing and farming, single; age, 44. Born at Sandusky, Ohio, April 
3, 1841, and has resided in Westbrook since 1853. Educated in the Westbrook 
common schools and academy. Has served as constable and on the board of 
relief, and is a man of good judgment. Always voted the Republican ticket. 

Douglass, J. Raymond, Salem. Republican, no religious preference, 
farmer (formerly in the teaming business), married; age. 46. Born in Water- 
ford in 1839. has resided in Montville and Norwich, and for the last four years 
in Salem. Educated in the common schools and at the Norwich high school. 
Has served as assessor and selectman. 

E 

Edgerton, Austin L., Tolland. Republican, no religious preference, 
farmer, married; age, 33. Born in Tolland, and has always kept his residence 
there. Educated in the common school. Has served as constable several 
years, and deputy-sheriff from June, 1880, to June, 1883. 

Emmons, George W., Hartland. Republican. 



Fenton, Henry J., Windsor. Republican, no religious preference stated, 
fish-culturist, married; age. 34. Born in Windsor and has always resided 
there. Educated in the common school and at Bryant & Stratton's Commer- 
cial College. Has served as treasurer of the Fenton Trout Breeding Co. 
for the past six years, and superintendent of the state fish hatcheries for the 
past five years, school committtee for four years, and is member of the Repub- 
lican town committee. Was messenger of the House in 1884, serving to uni- 
versal satisfaction. Is a leading citizen, and has always been a Republican. 

Ferguson, William J., North Canaan. Democrat, Episcopal, farmer, 
married; age, 60. Born in Sheffield, Mass., May 29, 1825, and has resided in 
Virginia. Educated in the common schools. Served as selectman and on the 
board of relief. Was always a Democrat. 

FiTTON, Crosley, Vernon. Republican, no religious preference, agent of 
the Rockville Manufacturing Co., married; age, 45. Born near Manchester, 
England. Educated in Lenox, Mass. Always a Republican. 

FiTTS, Thomas K., Ashford. Democrat, Congregation alist, farmer, gar- 
dener and florist, single ; age, 53. Born in Ashford and educated there. Lived 
for a time in Hartford. Member of the House iu 1883; served on committee 
on Incorporations. Always a Democrat. 



CONN. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 21 

Forbes, James, New Hartford. Eepublican, no religious preference staled, 
machinist, married; age, 53. Born in Forfarshire, Scotland, October 5, 1831, 
and has resided in New Hartford for more than a quarter of a century. Edu- 
cated in the common schools and academies of his native country. Came to 
America at the age of 22. First worked for the Winsted Hoe Co. Spent the 
year 1855 in Canada. Worked three years for N. B. Stevens & Co., hoe-manu- 
facturers, at Norfolk and there married Miss Julia A. Campbell of Sandisfleld, 
Mass., and removed to Pine Meadow in 1859 and was foreman of the Chapin 
Machine Co. from 1865 to 1870, when he entered the employ of E. M. Chapin. 
In 1879 he took his present position with the Greenwoods Co. Served in Com- 
pany A, 12th Conn. Vols, until the close of the war. Is a member of the 
G. A. R. and is prominent in Masonic circles. Has served as justice of the 
peace, school committee, grand juror, and on the board of health. 

Ford, Frank R., Woodbury. Temperance Republican, Methodist since 15 
years of age, engaged in wholesale meat and express business, married; age, 
40. Educated in the common school and one term in a select school. Worked 
at farming for a poor blind father till 21, and then started out to seek his fortune 
with lesslhan a dollar in his pocket; had learned no trade and had worked on 
a farm one year. Removed to Woodbury 17 years ago, bought a retail grocery 
business for which he gave his note for 1450. Nine 3^ears later went into the 
wholesale meat and express business between Woodbury and New Haven and 
continues till now, and by honest toil has secured quite a little fortune and 
always lias paid one hundred cents on the dollar; owns fifty acres of land, four 
dwelling-houses, barns, slaughter-house, water-power, shop, etc., with no cupola 
or mortgage on any of them. Married Miss Blackmar at the age of 25, and has 
an interesting family of two girls and one boy. Always a Republican. 

Ford, Henry N., Bozrah. Eepublican, Congregationalist, farmer and lum- 
berman, married ; age, 49. Born in Bozrah, educated there and has always 
resided there. Has served as assessor and member of the board of relief. 
Always a Republican. 

Fowler, Wallace G., Guilford. Republican, Congregationalist, superin- 
tendent, book-keeper, and paymaster of manufacturing companies, married; 
age, 49. Born in Guilford, October 19, 1835, and has resided in Stafford Springs 
and Louisville, Ky. Educated at Guilford and Hartford high school. Member 
of the House in 1880. Alwa3'S a Republican. 

Freeman, Edward A., Simsbury. Republican always, Congregationalist, 
engaged in manufacturing (Harttbrd Silk Co., Tariflville) for the past five years, 
married; age, 42. Born in South Coventry, January 20, 1843; resided there 
fifteen years and in Hartford about twenty years. Educated in the common 
school. Was ten years a druggist in Hartford. Saw four years' service in the 
army, in 12th Conn. Vols, and re-enlisted in the Veteran Corps after two years' 
service. Was for several years paymaster of the Hartford & Fishkill railroad 
and was also employed on the N. Y. & N. E. road a short time. 

French, Orton B., Hartland. Republican, his religion is that which rec- 
ognizes one over-ruling supreme being and one heaven, believes that if we 
try to live in the fear of God the end will find us as ready as it is in the power 
of mortal man to be, places no confidence in creeds; engaged in mechanical 
pursuits and farming, married; age, 47. Born in Hartland, October 29, 1837. 
Educated in the common school and at Wilbraham. Was brought up a Demo- 
crat; his politiciil views began to change at 18, and when al)out 20 began to 
look about and saw much more in t!ie Republican party that he could indorse 
than there was in the Democratic parly. At Lincoln's second election he 
voted for the first time, and has .\lways voted the Republican ticket since. He 
has served as selectman, member of the school committee, board of relief, town 
agent, and on the town committee. 

Frisbie, Samuel, Farmington. Republican, secretary of the Upson Nut 
Co., formerly Union Nut Co. Declines to furnish any further facts concerning 
himself and past life. Whether it is because there are those existing which he 
is unwilling to make public or not, he does not state in either of two painful 
epistles written to the editor. 



22 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 



G 



Gager, Hexry M., Somers. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer aucl 
lumber-dealer, married; age, 41. Born iu Somers and educated there. Lived 
for a time iu Enfield. Always a Republican. 

Garvan Patrick, East Hartford. Republican, Catholic, paper-dealer, mar- 
ried ; age, 48. Born in Ireland, and has resided iu East Hartford 33 years. 
Educated principally in Ireland ; attended school at East Windsor Hill one 
year. Has held several town offices and chairmanship of school board for the 
past five years. Member of the House in 1884, and member of the Finance 
committee. 

Gay, Erastus, Farmington. Republican, merchant; ase, 42. Born ia 
Farmington, July 26, 1843, fitted for college in Principal Hart's school, but 
engaged in business with his father instead of taking a collegiate course. He 
has served as town treasurer and treasurer of the town deposit fund, and chair- 
man of the Republican town committee. Member of the House in 1883. 

Gay, Henry, Winchester. Republican, Congregationalist, cashier of the 
Hurlbut National bank, married; age, 51. Born in Salisbury, April 5, 1834, 
and has resided in Winchester since 1854. Educated at Salisbury. Has served 
as town tieasurer. Member of the House in 1875-76-77 and 1879. Always a 
Republican. 

Gilbert, Henry E., Coveutr3^ Republican, Congregationalist, farmer, 
mostly; married; age, 62. Born in Mansfield, December 17, 1822, and has lived 
in Coventry since 1859. Has served as assessor, selectman, on board of relief 
and board of education, secretary, treasurer and committee of Eccl. Society, 
and clerk and treasurer of Centennial Association. Member of the House in 
1868 and 1872, served as committee on banks and constitutional amendments. 
Always a Riipublican. 

GiLMOUR, David S., Norwich. Republican, Congregationalist, manufac- 
turer, single ; age, 39. Born in Paisley, Scotland. Educated in the common 
school, his parents having removed to this country and settled in Simsbury 
when he was but a child. In 1852 he removed to Greenville, and for the past 
sixteen years he has been connected with the firm of Gilmour Brothers, iron- 
founders and manufacturers of specialties iu har-lware. He held local offices 
in Greenville till the district was annexed to Norwich iu 1875, and has had 
four years' service in the city council since then. He has traveled consider- 
ably in this country, and has visited England, Scotland, Ireland, and France. 
Member of the House in 1884. 

GoDDAKD Alfkkd E.. Essex. Republican, liaptist, mauufactui'er, married; 
age, 37. Born in Lowell, Mass., July 28, 1847, educated in the common and 
select schools; has resiiJed in Massachusetts and New York and came to Essex 
in 1870; for about seven years since then has been engaged as partner in man- 
ufacturing emery wheels and the rest of the time, up to last spring, as super- 
intendent of a top manufactory. Before coming to Essex, for a few years was 
mechanical draughtsman at the works of the American Watch Co., at Waltham, 
Mass. Always a Republican. 

Goodwin, Erastus D., Salisbury. Independent Democrat, believes God is 
in his works, and he who labors, prays ; married and has four children ; age, 62. 
Born in Sharon, January 7, 1823, and has lived in Salisbury since one year old. 
Is self-educated, has been a practical farmer for fifly-one years, and depended 
upon his own judgment. Is opposed to all sharp practices, especially in legis- 
lation. Believes in a more equitable system of taxation and that burdens 
should be lifted from labur and placed more upon surplus capital. Wrote a 
series of letters in the spring of 1884 upon the ''Equities of legislation, consti- 
tutional limitations, tarift' reform," and other live questions. Was the only 
farmer interviewed by the tariff commission, and also made an argument before 
Blair's committee on education and labor. Is the author of a pamphlet on 
" Taxation, State and National," and delivered a valuable address, February 7, 



CONN. (GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 23 

1834, before the American Agricultural Association in Xew York on " The Ex- 
haustion of our Soils and the Destruction of our Forests.'' Has served as 
assessor, selectman, and on the board of relief. Was formerly a constitutional 
Democrat. 

Gkaham, James, Orange. Republican, Congregationalist, brass-founder, 
married; age, 54. IBora in Albany, N. Y., January 23, 1831, resided in Bran - 
ford from 1852 to 18G1, and in New Haven since then. Educated in tlie com- 
mon schools at Albany. Has been engaged in business in New Haven for 
twenty-four years under the firm name of James Graham & Co., brass-founders. 
Is a director in the West Haven Water Co., Pursell Piano Stool and Chair Co., 
West Haven, and New Haven Car Trimming Co. Has served as selectman 
two years, assessor, and seven years member of board of wardens and burgesses 
for the borough of West Haven. Member of the House in 1878. Was always 
a good Republican. 

Greene, William J., Goshen. Republican, Presbyterian, farmer, married; 
age, 58. Born in Westchester county. New York, May 19, 1827, and has re- 
sided in Connecticut for six years. Educated in the common schools. Served 
as constable nine years, and superintendent of roads thirteen years. Always 
a Republican. 

Gregory, Samuel, Danbury. Democrat, Episcopal, carpenter, married > 
age, 62. Born in Danbury, February 26, 1823. A direct descendant of th 
first Gregory ihat settled in Danbury in 1684. Educated there and has resided 
there the most of the time. Served in the state militia twent3'-two years, ad- 
jutant of the 5th Connecticut Cavalry four years, holding office in the infantry 
eleven years, rising from third lieutenant to lieutenant-colonel. Was adjutant 
of the 23d Connecticut Vols, under Gens. Butler and Hanks in the late war. 
Served as notary public four years, constable one year, on board of relief three 
years, as justice of peace eight years and was recently elected for two years 
more. Been a Democrat for forty years, but not a blind partisan, always going 
for the good of all concerned. 

Gridley, Silas A., Harwintou. Republican. 

Griffin, John S., East Haddam. Republican, no religious preference, 
farmer and lumberman, single; age, 31. Born at East Haddam, December 3, 
1853, and has always resided there. Educated in the comni'jn school and at 
Saybrook. Served as constable. Always a Republican. 

Griffin, Uriah S., Reddimj:. Republican, Methodist, farmer married ; age. 45 
Born at Hedding, March 8, 1840, and has always resided there with the excep- 
tion of one and a half years ill the West. Eilucated at the common and high 
school. Postmaster at West Redding three years. AVas always a consistent 
Republican. 

Griggs, C. Edwin, Chaplin. Republican, Congregationalist, clersyman 
and teacher, married; age, 58. Born in Pomfret (Abington Societv), j'lijy 21, 
1827, and has resided in Chaplin since four years of age. Educated \at Monson 
academy, Amherst College, and Union Theological Seminary, N. Y. Has served 
as auditor, member of board of relief, school visitor twenty-two years, and was 
census taker in 1870. Is vice-president of the Windham Co. auxiliary of the 
Connecticut Temperance Union. Member of the Senate in 1868. Formerly 
a Whig, but has been a Republican ever since the fo'-mation of that party. 

Griswold, Jabies O., Glastonbury. Democrat, Congre<iationalist, tobacco- 
grower, married; age, 43. Born in Glastonbury, September, 1841, educated 
there and has always resided there. Has served as constable several years, and 
was always a true Democrat. 

Griswold, Wait R., Jr., Rocky Hill. Republican, no religious nreference» 
merchant, married; age, 30. B^rn in Durham, February, 1855. and" resided at 
Easton eight years, Hartford seven, and Rocky Hill four. Educated in the 
common schools and at Williston Seminary, Massachusetts. 

Griswold, Washington E., Killingworth. Democrat, Couirregationalist. 
farmer, formerly a teacher, married ; age, 54. Born in Killingworth, December 



24 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

27, 1830. Educated at Lee's academy, Madison, and the State Normal school. 
Has served as selectman seventeen years, and held all the various minor town 
offices. Is justice of the peace, chairman of the board of education, and was 
chosen judge of probate at the last election. Member of the House in 1866 
and 1867. Was always a Democrat. 

Grosvenor, Charles W., Pomfret. Republican, Congregatioualist' 
farmer, married; age, 46. Born in Pomfret in 1839. Educated in the com- 
mon school and at the State Normal school. Has served as auditor and con- 
stable. Member of the House in 1881. "Was always a Republican. 

GuNN, George M., Milford. Democrat, lawyer; age, 33. Born in Milford, 
August 10, 1851. Educated in the common schools, at Russell's military acad- 
emy in New Haven, Yale College, class of '74, and Yale law school in 1878. 
He has taught school six years, and has served on the school board and a 
director of the Milford Savings bank. He was a member of the House in 1880 
and 81, and of the Senate in 1882 and 83. He is an able and clear-sighted leg- 
islator, and has had a most successful and brilliant career. He comes from a 
stock of legislators, his father and grandfather both having served as members 
of the House. 

H 

Hall, Edmund, Voluntown. Republican, no religious preference stated, 
engaged in mercantile pursuits, married ; age, 45.' Born in Stonington, Sep- 
tember 23, 1839. Resided in Stonington ten years, Hopkinton, R. I., fourteen, 
Norwich two, and the rest of the tin:e in Voluntown. Educated in Hopkin- 
ton, R. I. Has held various local offices. Member of the House in 1870. He 
was always a Republican. 

Halladay, Edmund, Suffield. Republican, Baptist, farmer, married; age' 
33. Born in Suffield, May 8, 1852, and has always resided there. Educated at 
Connecticut Literary Institute. Has served as assessor. Always a Republican. 

Hammond, George A., Putnam. Republican, liberal in religious belief, 
silk-manufacturer, married; age, 44. Born in Hampton, May 26, 1841, and 
resided there till 1802. Educated in the common schools and academy. Served 
a term in the 26th Connecticut Vols. Taught in Windham-county schools five 
winters. In the fall of 1864 entered the silk business in Mansfield, and con- 
tinued till January, 1878, when the Putnam silk mills were established, the firm 
being Hammond & Knowltou, with salesrooms at 524 Broadway, New York, and 
83 and 85 Summer street, Boston. Member of the House from ^Mansfield in 
1876. Has served as school visitor. He was alvj^ys a Republican. 

Harris, George Wells, Wetherstield. Republican, Congregationalist' 
farmei', married; age, 38. Born in Hartford, March 25, 1847. His father, 
Chauncey Harris, was principal of the south distT'ict school, Hartford, which he 
attended till he entered the high school, and attended this three years till he 
entei'ed tlie senior class, and shortly afterwards entered the Connecticut Nor- 
mal school, and was graduated in the class of '66. Always a Republican. 

Hartvvell, Henry S., Washington. Democrat, Congregationalist, farmer, 
married ; age, 51. Born in Washington, December 8, 1833, and has alwaj^s 
resided tliere. Eilucated in the common schools and Gunney academy, 

Hawley, Edward S., Huntington. Republican. Congregationalist, farmer 
at the present time, married ; age, 34. Born in Huntington, May 2, 1851, and 
has lived there the most of the time. Educated at the common and high 
schools and at Phillips academy, Andover, Mass. Was superintendent of the 
Sunday-scliool for several years. Served as school visitor, registrar of voters, 
and in other minor town offices for several years. Always a Republican. 

Hawley, John P., Stafloid. Republican, Congregationalist. clergyman, 
married; age, 53. Born in Norfolk. Trouble with his eyes prevented a full 
course of study in early life, and he was obliged to abandon the study of law for 
this reason. Educated at Winsted academy, McGraw institute, and Northern 
College, 111. Engaged in business pursuits till 1866, and then studied for the 



CONN. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 25 

ministry, graduating from the Hartford Theological Seminary in 1869. Has 
constantly been in the pastoral office since, and for something over a year at 
Stafford Springs. Has served as sclecimau and justice of the peace. Member 
of the House in 1862 and 1874. Always a Republican. 

Hayes, Condit, Granby. Republican, no religious preference stated, 
farmer, married; age, 46. Born in Granby, September 28, 1838, and has re- 
sided tliere the most of the time. Educated in the common school and acad- 
emy. Enlisted in the 10th Connecticut Vols, as musician and served nearly a 
year, when Congress enacted a law discharging regimental bands. Held the 
office of assessor two years, also district school commiitee, and is at present 
clerk of the district. VVas always a Republican. 

HiBBARD, John F., Woodstock. Republican, Protestant, farmer, married; 
age, 53. Born in Canterbury, August 7, 1831, and has resided in ]\Jichigau 
and Massachusetts. Educated at \Voodstock academy. He followed school- 
teaching for eleven years, and was an overseer in a manufactory for eight 
years. In connection with farming, he has made breeding of fine Devon cat- 
tle a specialty for the past fourteen years, and his name is well known among 
breeders all over the country. His post-office address is Southbridge, Mass. 
He was originally an abolition Free-Soiler. 

Hooker, Da\id Carr, Mansfield. Republican, Universalist, handle and 
spoke manufacturer and miller, married; age, 65. Born in Peacham, Yt., and 
has resided in Eastford and Unionville. Educated in the common school. Has 
served as town grand juror, selectman, and justice of the peace. Was born 
and reared a Democrat, and voted that ticket till 1853, when he inclined toward 
the Free-Soil party, and joined the Republican party at its birth, and has 
resolved to remain with it so long as there is a "solid south." 

Houlihan, Michael J.. Newtown. Democrat, Catholic, liquor-dealer, mar- 
ried ; age, 27. Born in Newtown, January 7, 1858. Educated there, and has 
always resided there. Has held the office of registrar of voters. Always been 
a straight Democrat. 

Houston, James Borland, Enfield. Republican, no religious preference 
stated, paymaster at Hartford Carpet Co.'s works, married; age, 26. Born in 
Thompsonville, January 10, 1858, and has resided there most of the time. 
Educated in New York city, and one year at the Sheffield Scientific school. 

Howe, Henry E., Cheshire. Democrat, no religious preference, landlord, 
married; age, 42. Born in Canaan, April 30, 1843, and has resided in East 
Haddam and Hartford. Educated in the common schools. Has served as 
constable and collector in Ca'^aan. Member of the Hartford common council 
in 1880 and 1881. Always a Democrat. 

HoYLE, James, Willington. Republican, no religious preference, woolen 
manufacturer, married; age, 55. Born in England, April 3,1830. Educated 
in the common school. Came to the United States in 1856; learned the busi- 
ness of wool-sorting, and was foreman in that department at the Adriatic mill, 
Worcester, Mass., from 1863 to 1873. Since then he has owned and operated 
the "Daleville Mill," in Willington. and has done a highly successful business. 

HoYT, Edmund B., Middlebury. Republican, Methodist, farmer (formerly 
a hatter, till 1868), married; age, 54. Born in Bethel, November 8, 1830, and 
has lived in Middlebury since 1868. Educated in Bethel; has served as select- 
man. Always been a Republican. 

HoYT, George H., Stamford. Democrat, Protestant Episcopal, banker, 
married; age, 46. Born, educated, and always resided in Stamford, Is pres- 
ident of the Stamford Savings bank and vice-president of the Stamford Na- 
tional bank. Has held the office of burgess and member of school committee 
for six years. Member of the House in 1876 and 1881, Has usually acted with 
the Democratic party. 

Hubbard, Daniel R., Southingtou. Republican, Congregationalist, em- 
ploye of the Southingtou Lumber and Feed Co., single; age, 48. Born in 
Cromwell, September"20, 1836. Worked on his father's farm summers and 



26 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

attended school winters until 16 years of age; then entered the employ of J. & 
E. Stevens & Co., Cromwell, manufacturers of iron toys and general hardware ; 
remained there till he enlisted in the 4th Connecticut Vols, in April, 1861. 
Served in all the campaigns of this regiment from Ma}' 22, 1861, to September 
20, 1864. Was first elected 2d Lieut, of Company H; the next winter the reg- 
iment became the 1st Connecticut Artillery, in which he was commissioned 1st 
Lieut, and promoted to captain June 22, 1862, in the midst of McClellan's 
campaign. Served in Grant's campaign before Richmond and Petersburg dur- 
ing the summer of 1864. Honorably discharged September 20 of that year, on 
account of physical disability. Went to northern Iowa to regain his health, 
and engaged in farming for three years; spent two other years in farming, 
and has, with this exception, been engaged in mechanical work. His wife died 
since the war. His only son, Elmer W. Hubbard, was appointed a cadet at 
West Point by Gen. Hawley, and will graduate June, 1885. He has held the 
office of deacon in the Congregational church for several years, clerk and treas- 
urer tour years, member of society committee one year, treasurer of tlie Y. M. 
C. A. Always a Republican. 

Hull, Orville H., Monroe. Republican, no religious preference, farmer, 
married; age, 46. Born in Monroe, July 25, 1839. Has resided at Stepney, 
and was educated in the common and select schools there. Has served as 
constable, grand juror, registrar of voters, assessor, and ou the board of relief; 
doorkeeper of the House in 1879; assistant superintendent of the capitol, session 
of 1882. 

HusTED, Nehemiah H., Greenwich. Democrat, farmer; age, 42. Born 
in Greenwich, April 14, 1843. Educated in the public schools. Has served as 
town treasurer and selectman for several years. Member of the House in 1883, 

Hutchinson, George C, Hebron. Republican. 

HuTCHiNS, Joseph, Plainfield. Republican, Congrcgationalist, letired 
farmer, married; age, 65. Born in Plainfield, educated in the common 
schools and Plainfield academy, and has always lived there. Has served as 
selectman, member of board of relief, and in other local offices. Member of 
the House in 1858 and 1875. Formerly an old-line Whig. 



Inslee, CLiNTOisr T., East Windsor. Democrat, cigar-manufacturer, mar- 
ried; age, 39. Born at Warehouse Point, April 20, 184(3. Educated there, and 
has resided there the most of the time. Worked in Hartford, New Haven, 
Bridgeport, and South Norwalk from 1862 to 1864; lived in Chicago winter of 
1869, and in Cleveland, Ohio, winter of 1864. Has served as town auditor 
three years, ferry commissioner three years. Member of the House in 1884. 
Always a Democrat. 



Jackson, Franklin D., Derby. Republican, Prolestant. merchant, mar- 
ried; age, 38. Born in Birmingham, February 8, 1847. Educated in the 
Derby common schools. Member of the House in 1884; chairman of the com- 
mittee on returns of justices of the peace, and secretary of the committee on 
cities and boroughs. 

Jackson, Henry I., Torrington. Republican, Congrcgationalist, em- 
ployed in manufactory, married; age, 68. Born in New Milford, August 1, 
1816. Removed to Torringtotf in 1836, and has resided there since except 
about twenty years in Wisconsin, where he held the offices of justice of the 
peace, deputy county register, deputy-sheriff", deputy clerk of court, deputy 
provost-marshal, clerk in latter's office, and member of board of supervisors, 
etc., etc. Since his return has served as justice of the peace five years, and 
assessor five. Formerly a Whig. 



CONN. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 27 

Johnson, Dwight L., Bethany. Democrat, Congregationalist, farmer, 
married; age, 38. Born iu Prospect, March 4, 1847. Educated in the common 
school. 

JosLYN, Charles M., Hartford. Democrat. Congregationalist, lawyer, 
married; age, 36. Born in Tolland, March 26, 1849. His parents still reside 
there, his father being one of the most prominent citizens of the town. Edu- 
cated at the common and high schools, and graduated from Monson academy, 
class of '70, taking the valedictory and first prizes as speaker and writer. Fit- 
ted for Yale College, but instead of entering, listened to the advice of trusted 
friends, and entered the office of the eminent law firm of Waldo, Hul)bard, & 
Hyde, whence he was admitted to the bar in 1873. For the succeeding two 
years was assistant state attorney with Hon. William Hamersley and Hon. 
George G. Sumner. In April, 1875. formed the Hartford law firm of Hyde & 
Joslyn,with E. H. Hyde, Jr., which continues, and has received the confidence 
and patronage of the public to a large extent, doing a large amount of business. 
Has held but few offices, and never got in the habit of asking for them, always 
endeavoring to do his duty as a citizen, and willing to bear his share of the 
public burden. Served as chairman of the high school committee for several 
years, and clerk of the city court 1874 to 1878, and in other local office-*. Was 
the Democratic candidate for mayor of Hartford in 1882 and 1884; but, as 
votes are counted, not weighed, he was defeated; yet he never donned sack- 
cloth and ashes in consequence. Served as a member of the late Gov. Hub- 
bard's statr, an honor to be appreciated, like many other favors which he 
received from that rare man. Is secretary of the State Bar Association, vice- 
president and meral)er of the ex. commitee of the Hartford Trust Co., director 
in the Tolland Co. National bank, and connected with several Hartford sav- 
ings ba'ks as an officer and attorney. Has been at the head of the Hubbard 
escort since its organization in 1880. — an organiz^'tion with h reputation for 
cleanness and honesty in politics. Was married to a most excellent lady iu 
1879. Has been before the public considerably as a speaker, and has a fine 
reputation in this direction; an address upon the life and character of Nathan 
Hale, in 1878. and the memorial address in Hartford, in 1884, are evidences of 
his eloquence and ability. In 1878, he made a short tour abroad for pleasure 
and education. Member of the House from Tolland in 1874; elected by a 
unanimous vote irrespective of party; served on the Judiciary committee. 
The "Hartford Courant" said of him that "• although the youngest member of the 
House, he was among the most faithful at his work, and among the most sen- 
sible and infiuential upon the floor." He has always been a Democrat, but has 
never been regarded a bitter or bigoted partisan, always endeavoring to be 
counted a "clean man" in politics, and has been influential in the councils of 
his party and upon the platform. 

JUDD, Horace Q., Seymour. Kepublican, Methodist, clergyman, married; 
age. 44. Born in Bethel in 1841. Educated at the Hudson River Institute, 
N. Y. His anceslefs have been residents of Danbury and Betliel for over one 
hundred years. His father, Ebenezer S. Judd, was a Whig till the Republican 
party was formed, and was a member of the House in 1869, continuing a Re- 
publican till he died. In 1862 the son was preparing for the ministry, but 
obeyed tlie pressing call of President Lincoln and Gov. Buckingham for troops 
and enlisted in the 17th Connecticut Vols., engaging with his regiment in the 
great battles of Chancellorsville and Gettysburg, and at the expiration of three 
years was honorably discharged. He entered the ministry of the New York 
east conference, in April, 1870, and has held pastorates of three years' duration 
each, in Cornwall, Wolcottville, Watertown, Thomaston, and one of two years, 
in Bridgeport, and was appointed to Seymour in the spring of 1883. In Water- 
town and Thomaston was a member of the board of education, and in Wol- 
cottville (now Torrington) was an active member of the committee on public 
schools. Prior to entering the ministry, was engaged for several years as a 
teacher in Redding and Washington, Conn. 



28 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 



Keigwin, John G., Windham. Rei^ublican, Baptist, not engaged in busi- 
ness at present, married ; age, 60. Born in Griswold in 1825. Educated in the 
common scliool. Engaged in the readj'-made clothing and furnishing business 



burgesses eleven years. 

Kennedy, Thomas, 2d, Wallingford. Democrat, Catholic, burnisher, mar- 
ried; age, 43. Born at Lispole, County Kerry, Ireland, December 21, 1841; 
came to the United States in 1855. Attended the national school in his native 
country, and the common school in Holyoke, Mass. Has been employed by 
Simpson, Hall, Miller. & Co., tor tifteen years. Has held the offices of assessor, 
school committee, and member of the board of relief, tbree years each. 

Kenyon, David S., Sterling. Democrat, no religious preference, farmer) 
married; aged, 45. Born in Sterling, May 6, 1840. Educated in the common 
school. 

King, Joseph Henry, Lebanon. Republican, Protestant, carpenter and 
joiner, single ; age, 44. Born in Lebanon, April 1.3, 1841, and has resided in 
Illinois and Missouri. Educated in the common schools in his own town, and 
a select school in Windham. Is a man largely enjoying the confidence and 
respect of the community. Was always a Republican. 

Kingsbury, Eleazer B., Coventry. Republican, Cougregationalist, en- 
gaged in woolen manufacture and other mechanical pursuits, married ; age, 56. 
Born in Chaplin, July, 1829, and has resided in Coventry since 1851. Educated 
in the common schools. Has held no iroi3ortant public offices. Was formerly 
a Whig. 

Kinne. George Oliver, Hartford. Democrat, Episcopal, machinist, single; 
age, 64. Born in South Coventry in 1821, and educated there. Has been em- 
ployed as foreman in Colt's machine-shop for the last twenty years. Is a 
Deiiiocrat of sound judgment., and well qualified for official position. 



Lake, Thomas A. .Woodstock. Republican, no religious preference, lumber 
dealer, married ; age, 36. Born in Woodstock, and has always made his resi- 
dence there. 

Lathror, Asahel p., Andover. Republican, attends the Baptist church, 
farmer, married ; age, 39. Born in Lebanon, April 12, 1846, and has resided 
in Andover fifteen years. Educated in the common schools. Served as 
selectman two years. 

Lawton, Michael W., Middletown. Democrat, Catliolic, merchant, mar- 
ried; age. 44. Born in Portland and resided for a time in Providence. Edu- 
cated in the public and private schools. Has served as justice of the peace, 
selectman, registrar of voters, water commissioner, and member of city council. 
Member of the House in 1884. Always a good Democrat. 

Lee, William Wallace, Meriden. Radical Republican, believes in equal 
powers. eqOul l;)urdens. iqual rights, equal duties, protection to every American 
citizen while he obeys the laws, and protection to American industries and 
labor. In religion is a sinner and heretic; his kind can be found in James I. 
27. By occupation is a machinist and tool-maker, married; age, 57. Born in 
Barkhamsted. July 20, 1828 and has resided in Winsted, Hartwell, Derby, 
Bridgeport, and New London. Educated in an old-fashioned school-house 
standing upon a Barkhamsted knoll. Took his degrees in a seminary which 
stood upon the east bank of the Tunxis river in Pleasant valley. It was 
operated by his father and had a water-wheel undei'neath. It has gone to 
decay since his father's death. He has acquired some reputation as a " blow- 



CONN. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 29 

er," having blown a bass drum in a brass band at Gov. Buckingham's first 
inauguration. Was lieutenant in Co. I, 2d C, N. G., for three years, and claims 
to be a "• bold soldier boy," though when he enlisted in the 19th Connecticut 
Vols, he was rejected on account of an arm broken when a boy not being prop- 
erly set. Was also a " bully fireman " for five years, but during all his office- 
holding always allowed his family to associate with the neighbors on a common 
plane of equality. He has not been much of a hero because he couldn't be ; 
is simply what our southern Democratic leaders used to call a " greasy me- 
chanic," but considers himself just as useful a member of society as if he had 
been a college gi'aduate. He has been a chief officer of the state in ever}' de- 
partment of Masonry with which he has been connected, and is an active Re- 
publican and earnest temperance worker. He performed faithful service in aid- 
ing the Union cause and his soldier brother's orphaned ciiildren during the 
war. He has hid the offices of constable, justice, and alderman. AVas a Free- 
Soilerfrom 18-i8. 

LiNSLEY, Henry D., Branford. Democrat, no religious preference, farmer^ 
married ; age, 42. Born in Branford, February 12, 1843, educated there and 
has always resided there. Has held offices of constable, deputy-sheriff, and tax- 
collector. Was always a Democrat. 

LoOMis, Charles N., Bolton. Democrat, Congregationalist, farmer, mar- 
ried; age, 44. Born in Bolton, September 17, 1840, educated there, and has 
always resided there. Holds the office of deacon in the church, and was 
always a Democrat. 

Lufler, Henry, Stafford. Republican, Congregationalist. machinist, 
married; age, 37. Born in Hingham, Mass., June 1. 1848. Has lived in 
Monson, Mass., and Gilead. Educated in the common school. His father died 
when he was quite young, leaving a widow, three sons and a daughter. They 
were in poor circumstances and were soon separated, he going at the age of 
nine to live with Mr. E. G. Whitou, at Gilead, with whom he remained till 
twenty -one. In the fall of 1863 Mr. AVhitou removed to West Staffin-d, and 
the next spring young Lufler entered the machine-shop of D. E. Whiton, 
(brother of his guardian) and learned the trade, serving successively as appren- 
tice, day laborer, constructor, and superintendent, which latter position he now 
holds. He has served on the board of relief tvvo years, and was always a 
Republican. 

M 

Marvin, Charles R., Saybrook. Republican, Congregationalist, manu- 
facturer, married; age, 29. Born at Deep River, January 2G, 185G. Educated 
at Williston Seminary, Easthampton, Mass. Is member of the firm of Williams 
& Marvin, manufacturers of mallets and handles of every kind, and variety 
wood turnings, at Deep River. Served as registrar of electors since 1880. 
Always a Republican. 

Mathewson, Philip, Plainfield. Republican, Congregational preference, 
not in business (formerly engaged in mercantile pursuits), married; age, 56, 
Born in Lisbon. D'rember 26, 1828. Resided in Providence, R. I., eight years, 
and in Medfield, Mass.. •] ve years. Educated in the common and select schools. 
Held the various town offices in Medfield. Was elected in November, 1884, 
by the largest Republican majority, and probably by the largest majority, any 
representative ever received in the town of Plainfield, having 141 plurality. 
Formerly an old-line Whig. 

Mattoon, Charles B., Watertown. Republican, Congregational prefer- 
ence, farmer and milk-dealer, married; age, 33. Born in Watertown, Decem- 
ber 23, 1851, and always resided there. Educated in the common schools and 
at Watertown academy. Always a Republican. 

McManus, Alonzo, New Britain. Republican, Methodist, machinist, mar- 
ried; age, 44. Born at Hanover, N. Y., and has resided in New Britain thirty 



80 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

yeai's. Was with his parents on a farm, sharing with them the discomforls of 
frontier life, attending the district school in the old log school-house winters, 
and helping on the farm summers till eighteen years old, when he was appren- 
ticed to a country blacksmith and worked at the trade for four or five years, 
and came to New Britain in 1854, and finally went into the machinist's busi- 
ness. In 185G, entered the employ of tiie North & Judd Manufacturing Co., 
and has there remained as machinist, and rising to be foreman and superin- 
tendent. Formerly a Whig. 

Mead, Bekjamin P., New Canaan. Republican, Congregationalist, mer- 
chant, married; age, 37. Boi'u in Bridgeport, and has resided in Greenwich 
and New York. Educated at Greenwich academy. Has seived as first select- 
man and town clerk four years. Is a man of sound business training. 

Mead, Cornelius, Greenwich. Democrat, farmer; age, 56. Born in 
Greenwich in 1829. Received an academic education. Has served as assessor 
and as a member of the boards of relief and education. Member of the Hoiise 
in ] 873-7-1-77-80-81-82 and 84, and has proved to be a most valuable legislator. 

Miles, Henry C, Milford. Democrat. 

Mills, Charles, Westport. Democrat, Congregationalist, stone-mason and 
farmer, married; age. 52. Born in Westport, February 25, 183.3, and has 
always lived there. Educated in the common schools and academy. Has held 
several local offices and was always a Democrat. 

Mitchell, Frank A., Norwich. Republican, no religious preference, man- 
ufacturer of iron, married; age, 30. Born in Norwich, February 7, 1855. 
Educated at Norwich free academy and Yale College. Was obliged to leave 
college on account of ill health, near the close of his senior year, and passed 
about a year in Los Angeles, Cal. On his return was employed by the Thames 
Loan and Trust Co. — a mortgage loan concern of Norwich — to look after 
their intei'ests in Indianapolis, where he remained two years, and during his 
residence there had the honor ot the acquaintance of the last two Democratic 
candidates for the vice-presidency. Is now connected with the firm of Mitchell 
Brothers, Cold Spring Iron-Works, established in 1845. Was always a Repub- 
lican. 

Mix, Edward L., AVest Hartford. Republican, Congregationalist, con- 
tractor and builder, married; age, 50. Born in West Hartford, October 3, 1834, 
and always resided there. Educated in the common school and academy. 

Moore, Stephen D., Preston. Democrat, no religious preference, machin- 
ist, married; sige, 44. Born in Bozrah, June 11, 1841. Educated in the 
common schools. Commenced working for a living, when quite young, in the 
manufacturing establishments, when the chances for a poor boy were meager 
enough. From this he entered upon mechanical work upon fire-arms, and at 
the outbreak of the war engaged in work upon government arms for the Nor- 
wich Arms Co. At the close of this, again worked on machiuer}^ for a time, and 
then in building and repairing locomotive engines for the Norwich & Worces- 
ter railroad, where he has been for eighteen years, having a thorough knowl- 
edge of railroad business, and the entire confidence and respect of his employers 
and fellow-mechanics, by whom he was chosen a member of the House. He 
has served as town grand juror and was always a Democrat. 

Morehouse, Sherman, Wilton. Democrat, Methodist, farmer, married; 
age, 66. Born in Wilton, November 13, 1818, educated there and always lived 
there. Has served as selectman, justice of the peace, assessor, collector, and 
in other minor town oflSces. Member of the House in 1870-71-73, and 74, and 
the first Democrat ever elected to the House from Wilton. He was always a 
Democrat. 

Morrison, Walter G., Windham. Republican, manufacturer, vice-presi- 
dent of the W. G. & A, R. Morrison Manufacturing Co., silk machinery, at 
Willimantic. He claims that his life has been so void of interesting facts" that 
the public can have no interest in it, so we do not know which century or what 
country he was born in, where he was educated, whether he is a bachelor or 
benedict, has any religion or not, or indeed any further facts about him. 



OUNN. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 31 

MOKSE, ASAHEL H., Litchfield. Democrat, Protestant Episcopal, farmer, 
married; age, 62. Born in Litchfield, March 21, 1823. Educated in tiie com- 
mon and private schools. He spent the larger portion of the year 1852 in gold 
mining in California. The remainder of his life has been spent on his farm, 
situated two miles southeast of Litchfield Center, and is one of the best farms 
in the county. He is a director of the Shepaug railroad, and vestryman of 
St. Michael's Episcopal church, Litchfield. Has served as assessor and on the 
board of relief. 

Morse, George R., Prospect. Republican, Adventist, carpenter and joiner, 
married; age, 33. Born in Prospect, April 1, 1852, always resided there. 
Educated in the common school. Has held the office of constable. 

MtJjSSON, Hjcnry A'V., Republican, Congregationalist, manufacturer, married ; 
age, 50. Born at Hamden, February 4, 1835, and has resided in New Haven. 
Was educated there. His post-office address is New Haven. He has served 
as selectman. Was always a Republican. 

MiJRDOCiv, George T., Thompson. Republican. 

N 

Neale, Elisha J., Southington. Democrat, Baptist, commercial traveler^ 
married; age, 36. Born in Bristol, December 16, 1848. Educated in Southing' 
ton, and has generally had bis residence there. In 1861) and 1870 he was 
engaged in the commission hardware business in New York city. Since that 
time he has been in the employ of the Peck, Stow, & Wilcox Co. as book-keeper 
and salesman, with the exception of two years, when he was manager of the 
American Rapid Telegraph Co. at Troy, N. Y. Was member of the House 
three weeks in 1883, but the seat was contested and awarded to J. Frank Pratt 
by one majority; was re-elected member of the House of 1884 by ninety-nine 
majority, and served on the committee on school funds; re-elected to the pres- 
ent House by sixteen majority. Has served as deputy registiar of voters and 
chairman of the Democratic town committee. Was always a Democrat. 

Newell, Silas W.. Union. Democrat, liberal in religious belief, lumber 
dealer and farmer, married; age, 40. Born in Union, November 27, 1844, and 
has resided at South Windham. Educated at the common and select schools 
in Union, and one term at Lawrence academy, Groton, Mass. Has served as 
school visitor, constable, and tax-collector. Member of the House in 1881, and 
served on the committee on Education. Has always been a Democrat. 

Newton, Edgar H., Hampton. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer, mar- 
ried; age. 53. Born in Hampton, May U, 1832. Educated in the public and 
private schools, and has resided principally in Hampton. Worked at farming 
by the mouth when a boy. Was always very fond of outdoor athletic sports, 
keenly enjoying bull-playing, pitching quoits, hunting, fishing, etc., and to the 
fine physical training which he received in their pursuit he ascribes his gen- 
eral good health, never having to pay out to for all the medicine he ever took. 
He commenced teaching at 18, teaching in his own town and in Lisbon. In 
April, 1855, he went to California by steamer, cros'-jing the isthmus by the 
Nicaragua route. Worked two years at gold mining with fair success, and 
returned, crossing by railroad at Panama" Engaged in clerking for two or 
three years. Appointed postmaster in 1872, and run a country store in con- 
nection for eight years. Since then has had no regular business, doing as 
much at farming as anything. Has served as town clerk and treasurer, regis- 
ter of births, marriages, ami deaths sixteen years, clerk of probate, school 
visitor, etc. Formerly a Whig. 

Newton, Henry G., Durham. Republican, Congregationalist, lawyer, sin- 
gle ; age, 42. Born in Durham, June 5, 1843. Educated at Durham academy, 
Wesleyan University, and Yale law school. Has served as acting school 
visitor for ten years. Was always a Republican. 

Nichols, Alexander R. T., Fairfield. Republican, farmer, married; age, 



32 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

45. Born at St. Matthew's Rectory, Bedford, N. Y., April 5, 1840. He is the 
youngest son of the late Rev. Samuel Nichols, D. D. His parents removed to 
&reenfleld Hill when he was an infant. Educated at the Adams academy, 
Fairfield, and at a collegiate high school in New York city. Arriving at man- 
hood, he became an active and prominent member of the New York Gold Ex- 
change. Soon after the close of the war he retired to his present residence at 
Greenfield Hill, where he has divided his time between agricultural pursuits 
and supervising family interests. He was enthusiastic in all measures for the 
suppression of the rebellion. He is a man of stern integrity, sound judgment, 
and large sympathy. His life has been characterized by many deeds of kind- 
ness and benevolence. Though a decided Republican, his popularity is such 
that while tlie district has long been largely Democatic, yet Colonel Nichols, 
whenever a candidate for office, has received not only the entire Republican 
vote, but has been very largely sustained by the Democrats. He was twice 
before nominated for representative. On his first nomination, he declined to 
accept. In 1876, and again in 1884. he was elected by large majorities. In 
politics, as well as in business, he has always been actuated by a desire to do 
that which he believed to be right, and has thereby secured the general good 
.will and respect of the community in which he lives. 

Nichols, Bradley, Stratford. Republican. 

NiCKERSON, John N., Redding. Republican, Methodist, farmer, married; 
age, 41. Born at New Utrecht, L. I., April 16, 1844. Has resided in New Y^ork 
and Providence, R I. Educated at Easton and Bridgehampton academies. 
Served one hundred days in the 56th New Y'ork Vols. Followed a mercantile 
life for six years, — first in the grocery business at East New York, under the 
firm name of Pedrick & Nickerson, and then in Redding, general merchan- 
dising under the firm Johnson & Nickerson, when he settled down to farming. 
Has held offices of assessor, registrar of voters six years, assistant acting town 
clerk, town committee, eight years. Always a Republican. 

Norton, Clarence H., Colchester. Democrat, Protestant, miller and 
farmer, single; age, 31. Born in Hebron, October 22, 1853. Educated in the 
common school. Has held no important offices. 



Oldfield, George Henry, Cornwall. Democrat, Episcopal, station agent 
for Housatonic Railroad Co., single; age, 34. Born in Glendale, Mass., March 
7, 1851. Resided in Lee, Mass., fifteen or eighteen years, and the rest of the 
time in Cornwall. Educated in the Lee common and high schools. Has held 
the office of constable in Cornwall. Was always a sound Democrat. 



Palmer, William E., Ridgefield. Republican, Baptist preference, farmer, 
married; age, 38. Born in New Y^'ork city, September 25,1846. Educated 
there and has since resided in Ridgefield. Has served as town constable. 

Parker, Edwin P., Thomaston. Republican, Congregationalist, clock- 
maker, widower; age, 65. Born in Belchertovvn, Mass, December 6, 1819, 
and educated there; has since lesided in Thomaston. Is a director in the 
Thomaston Savings bank. Was formerly a Whig. 

Parsons, Levi, East Windsor. Democrat, Congregationalist, blacksmith, 
married ; age, 61. Born in East Windsor, June, 1824, educated there, and has 
always lived there, enjoying the respect of the community. 

Peck, Charles E., Old Lyme. Democrat, Methodist, farmer and specula- 
tor in produce, single; age, 42. Born in Old Lyme, October 29, 1842. Edu- 
cated at Old Lyme and Vincennes, Ind., where he went in November, 1858^ 
and served three years as an apprentice in the retail drug business; thence to 
Cincinnati, where he served six years as clerk in the retail department of the 



CONN. (JENERAL ASSEMBLY. 83 

wholesale drug-house of Suire, Eckstein & Co. From there he weut to New York 
with McKesson & Rohbins for four j'ears, as salesman and commercial traveler 
for drugs and druggists' sundries; then returned to Old Lyme, and resumed 
the business of farming and speculating in farmers' produce. Has served as 
second selectman, and is now serving as first selectman. Was alwa5-s a 
Democrat. 

Pelton, Asa S., Clinton. Republican, Protestant, druggist, and also keeps a 
large country store, married; age, 69. Born in Killing-worth in 1816. For twenty- 
six years he practiced' medicine, and then devoted himself exclusively to the sale 
of drugs and other goods, which he has followed for over twenty years. Is now 
serving as first selectman, special law agent of the town, and chairman of the 
oyster-staking committee. Has served as grand juror, town auditor, and member 
of the board of relief. Member of the House in 1884. Always a Republican. 

Perry, Albkut, Barkhamsted. Republican, no religious preference, auc- 
tioneer, married; age, 49. Jjorn in Barkhamsted, August 28, 1835, and educated 
there. Went to Frazer River, Cal.. in the gold mine excitement of 1858. Enlisted 
in San Francisco as one of the California battalion ot cavalry, and went to make 
up the 2d Massachu-setts Cavalry, commanded by Col. Clark R. LmwcII, who was 
killed in action at Cedar Creek, Va. Served two years and six months; held 
important positions; was with General Sheridan in the Shenandoah valley, and 
at the surrender of Lee ; saw the '' last ditch," but not a dead rebel in it. Cast 
his tirst vote in California; never voted anything but the Republican ticket. Has 
served as town assessor. 

PnEL.A.N, John J., Bridgeport. Democrat, Catholic, lawyer, married ; age, 34. 
Born in Wexford, Ireland, June 24, 1851, and has resided for the last fifteen years 
in Bridgeport. Educated at Christian Brothers academy, Wexford, and at the 
university of the city of New York. Has served as city councilman three years, 
alderman one, and city attorney two, ending March, 1885. His office is located at 
Franklin block, Bridgeport, and enjoys a good practice. Was always a Democrat. 

Phelps, Charles, Vernon. Republican. Methodist, lawyer, married; age, 32. 
Born at East Hartford, August 10, 1852, and has resided at Wethersfield. Edu- 
cated at East Greenwich Seminary and Wesleyan University. Is county coroner 
under the present law. Was always a Republican. 

Phelps, George N., Avon. Democrat, no religious preference stated, mer- 
chant, married ; age, 55. Born in Gran'by, November 5,1829. Has resided in 
Hartford. Educated in the common school. 

PiGOTT, James P., New Haven. Democrat, lawyer. Born in New Haven. 
Educated at Yale College, academic and law. Has served as city clerk for the last 
four years. 

Platt, George N., Southbury. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer, mar- 
ried; age, 58. Born in Southbury, June 11, 1827, and resided six years in Rox- 
bury. Educated in the common school, and one course at Guuney, in Washington, 
Conn., a schoolmate of Senator O. H. Platt. Has served as justice of the peace, 
grand juror, constable, and selectman four years. 

Platt, George S., Eastou. Republican, Baptist, miller and country store- 
keeper, married;' age, 51. Born in Wawarsing, N. Y., and has lived in Easton 
forty-seven years. Educated in the common schools and at Staples academy, Eas- 
ton. Taught school several years, commencing in 1851. Has traveled consider- 
ably, visiting fifteen states. Was postmaster at Plattsville seventeen years. Has 
served as justice of the peace, selectman, assessor, and member of the board of 
relief. Republican always. 

Platt, Joxah C, Derby. Republican, Protestant, builder, married ; age, 52. 
Born in Milford, November 30, 1832, and has resided in Ansonia, Educated in 
the common schools. Has served as town tax-collector, and director of Ansonia 
Savings bank. Member of the House in 1884. Always a Republican. 

Pratt, Milox, Saybrook. Republican, attends the' Congregational church, 
mechanic, married; age, 53. Born at Penfield, near Rochester, N. Y., June 12, 
1831, the youngest of eleven children. When two years of age his parents moved 
3 



34 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 



to the western reserve in Ohio, and settled in the town of Geneva. His educa- 
tional advantages were such as the common schools of that section afforded. His 
early political impressions partook largely of the anti-slavery sentiment of northern 
Ohio, and upon the organization of the Republican party he found himself in har- 
mony with its principles, and has adhered to and acted with the party ever since. 
He was married in 1852, and came to Connecticut the next year. Was employed 
by and became a partner in the firm of Walter Webb & Co., manufacturers of 
ivory combs at Hanover. Later the business was merged into that of Julius Pratt 
& Co., and subsequently, that of Pratt, Head, & Co., now located at Deep River, 
where he has resided since 1872. He has been honored with such offices as select- 
man, justice of the peace, etc. Member of the House in 1875, Always a Repub- 
lican. 

Price, Platt, Norwalk. Democrat, Methodist, builder, married; age, 63. 
Born in 1822. Has resided part of the time in Huntington, L, I, Has served as 
selectman. Was a Republican till 1872. 

Purple. Mayo S., Chatham. Republican, no religious preference, merchant, 
member of firm dealing in general merchandise; been in business since 18 years 
of age; married; age, 2-4. Born in East Hampton, July 28. 1861. Resided in 
Cobalt six years. Educated at Greenwich academy, R. I. Was postmaster at 
Cobalt, and has served on the board of education. 

R 



Randall, John W., Killingly. Republican, Methodist, shoe and slipper 
manufacturer, single; age, 42. Born in Montville in 1843. Educated at the West 
Killingly academy, teaching school in the wintei's of 1860-61 and 1862. Enlisted 
in Co. B, 18th Conn. Vols., August 2, 1862, and served till the close of the war 
Was slightly wounded three times. Was promoted to corporal and was mustered 
out in 1865 as color corporal. There were many interesting incidents iu his army 
life. Has been engaged in his present business twelve years, under the firm name 
of J. W. Randall & Co., Danielsonville, Conu. Has held the local borough offices. 
Always a Republican. 

Reed, James B., Sharon. Democrat, farmer, married; age, 29. Born in 
Sharon, July 29, 1856. 

Reed, Levi M., Union. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer, married ; age, 
38. Born in Sturbridge, Mass., June 28, 1847, and has resided in SufBeld. Edu- 
cated in the common school; has held the offices of constable and grand juror. 

Robertson, John, Waterford. Democrat, Congregationalist, paper-manufac 
turer, single; age, 30, Born in Waterford and always resided there. Educated 
at Waterford and New London. His father died when he was 19, leaving him 
trustee of the estate with full management of his business, which was established 
in 1851 by himself, his brother, C. M. Robertson, and James Bingham. The com- 
pany manufactured the finest manilla tissue paper in this country, under the firm 
name of Robertson & Bingham. He has continued to manufacture this paper 
with many other grades of manilla paper, increasing the product nearly one-half. 
Has served as selectman two years and assessor two years. Was always a 
Democrat. 

RossiTER, Edgar P., Guilford. Republican, Congi-egationalist, farmer, mar- 
ried; age, 58. Born at North Guilford, December 19, 1826, Educated there and 
has always resided within a half-mile of where he was born. Was one of three 
brothers and five sisters, all now living at ages from 35 to 62, His father died when 
he was 21 and he had the care of the family for a number of years. He has 
traveled through some of the states, including Vermont and New Hampshire, and 
visited the Centennial exhibition in 1876. A daughter of his graduated as vale- 
dictorian at the State Normal school. Has served as selectman, assessor, juror, 
and in other town offices. Is a man of candid judgment. Was formerly a Whig 
and then Free-Soiler. 

Russell, Benjamin S., Woodbury. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer and 



CONN, GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 35 

drover, married; age, 62. Born in Southbury, March 28. 1823, and has lived in 
Woodbury 40 years. Educated in Southbury and Paterson, N. J. Has served as 
first selectman, assessor, and member of the board of relief. Always voted the 
Bepublican ticket. 

s 

Sage, Charles Parks, Cromwell. Republican, no religious preference, 
farmer, married; age, 55. Born in Cromwell, and resided for a time in Spring- 
field, Mass. Educated there and at Cromwell. Has served as selectman three 
years and held various Masonic offices. Member of the House in 1884. 

Satterlee, Charles A., Ledyard. Republican, Methodist, farmer for the past 
six years (formerly machinist and marine engineer), married; age, 49. Born in 
Ledyard, September 17,1835. Resided for ten years at Susquehanna, Pa. Edu- 
cated in the common school. Learned the machinist's trade and worked ten years 
in a locomotive repair-shop on the Erie railroad ; then entered the United States 
navy as acting 3d assistant engineer during the latter part of the war, and was 
discharged at the clo-e, in May, 1865. A few months afterwards he received an 
appointment as 2d assistant engineer in the United States revenue marine service; 
was promoted through the different grades and was commissioned as chief in 1872; 
resigned in 1878, and has since been farming on the old homestead. Has served 
as justice of the j^eace and selectman. Voted for Fremont and has always voted 
the Republican ticket. 

Selden, Joseph, Xorfolk. Republican, Protestant, silk-manufacturer, mar- 
ried; age, 61. Born in West Hartford, and has resided in Rockville. Educated 
at West Hartford and Westfield, Mass. Has served as selectman, etc. Was 
always a true Republican. 

Sessions, John H., Bristol. Republican, Methodist, manufacturer, married; 
age, 57. Born in Burlington, March 7, 1828. Educated in the common school. 
At the age of 15, he hired out to work on a farm at S8 per month and board; 
worked two summers, and did the chores winters for his board while attending 
short terras of school. He then hired to work in a wood-turning shop a year for 
$10 a month and board; worked at this trade about ten years, and in 1858 com- 
menced the business of manufacturing cabinet hardware. Is now manufacturing 
cabinet and trunk hardware and has a foundry for gray iron and malleable iron 
castings; his two sons are in company with him. The first firm is J. H. Sessions 
& Son; the second, is the Sessions Foundry Co. He is president of the Bristol 
National bank, the Bristol Water Co., and the National Water-Wheel Co.; also 
director in the Manufacturers' National bank of Waterbury, trustee in the Wes- 
leyan Univei-sity, Middletown, and member of the ex. committee and trustee in 
the Wesleyan academy, Wilbraham, Mass. 

Seymour, Rufus P., Norfolk. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer and 
undertaker, married; age, 58. Born in Norfolk, April 13, 1827. Educated there 
and has always resided there. Has served as tax-collector nine years and as as- 
sessor, holding the latter office at the present time. 

Shannon, J.\mes, Bridgewater. Democrat, Catholic, farmer (formerly a 
hatter), widower; age, 52. Born in Ireland in 1833. Came to Connecticut in 
May, 1851. In November of that year, went to Charleston, S. C, and remaint'd 
till March, 1852, when he removed to Bridgewater and has since resided there. 
Received his education in Ireland, and has served on the school committee in 
Bridgewater. Has always voted the Democratic ticket. 

Simonds, William Edgar, Canton. Republican, Episcopal, lawyer, engaged 
in patent practice, married; age, 42. Born in Collin.sville, November 24, 1842, 
and has resided in Hartford. Educated at the Collinsville high school, State 
Normal school, and Yale law school. Member of the House in 1883. and re- 
ported its proceedings during the session of 1865 for the Hartford "Press."* He 
early became a prominent candidate for the speakership, and, receiving the nomi- 
nation by the Republican caucus, was chosen to that position. 

Slade, Lucius Myron, Bridgeport. Democrat, believes in the " Golden 



36 1!I0(4RAPHR'AL SKETCHEg 

rule," lawyer, single; age, 56. Born in Hartlaud. June 19, 1829, in the house of 
his grandfather. His ancestry were of the early New England stamp, though with 
more liberal ideas than many of thei'* day and time. He attended the district 
school winters and assisted his father on the farm summers, being the youngest son. 
The first money he ever earned was for day work on a neighbor's farm, the wages 
being twelve and a half cents per day and board; he was but eight years old then. 
His parents removed to Barkhamsted in 1839 and there spent ihe remainder of 
their days. By great economy and close application, he fitted himself for college, 
but delayed entering for lack of means. He began teaching school in 1850, teach- 
ing in his own town, and followed it in West Granby. Riverton, Pleasant Valley, 
Wisconsin, and Bridgewater, at the latter place establishing a private school of a 
higher grade He had l)ecome quite an orator in these years, and took up the study 
of law in the office of Judge Goodwin of Riverton; he continued teaching, pur- 
suing his legal studies as best he could, and in 1859 he entered the office of the late 
r. A. Palmer of Stonington, with whom he completed his professional course, and 
was admitted to the New London county bar September 13, 1860, and immediately 
opened an office in Mystic, and commenced practice. In 1863 he removed to 
Bridgeport, and in a short time his business grew to satisfactory proportions. After 
two years of professional life he was elected city judge for three years, and then 
judge of the probate court for six years; and declining a re-election, resumed his 
practice and has amassed quite a competence, enjoying a fine residence on Fair- 
field avenue. He is regarded as one of the soundest counselors in the state, and 
practices with much ability and integrity for the interests of his clients. He served 
on the school board in Barkhamstead and always takes much interest in educational 
affairs. He is president of the Bridgeport Bar Association, having been re-elected 
for a second term. He has never been a political aspirant, though he has always 
been allied to and supported the Democratic party in all measures consistent with 
the best good of the country. 

Smith, Charles S., Kent. Democrat, Presbyterian, station agent on the 
Housatonic railroad, also i:)roprietor of a drug-store, married; age, 3(3. Born in 
Stratford, November 5, 1848. Lived in Wisconsin one year; otherwise in Kent 
■since 9 years of age. Educated at the Stratford academy. Has served as tax-col- 
lector and constable. Has been acting as station agent for the last fifteen years. 
Member of the House in 1880. Was always a Democrat. 

Smith, CHAUNCy M., Scotland. Republican, Congregationalist, merchant and 
farmer, married; age. 47. Born in Scothmd, in 1837, and resided for a time in 
Providence, R. I. Educated at Scotland. 

Smith, John Owen, Franklin. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer and 
real-estate dealer, married; age. 66. Born in Groton in 1819, and has lived in 
Franklin since 1838. Educated in Groton. Has traveled some in the West. Has 
served as selectman, town clerk, treasurer, justice of the peace, on board of relief, 
etc. Formerly an old-line Whig. 

Smith, .Iosiah A., North Branford. Republican, Congregationalist, clerk, 
married: age, 42. Born in New London, November 24, 1842, and has resided in 
Northford since 13 years of age. Educated in the common schools. His parents 
were poor, his father being engaged in the whaling service, but went to California 
at the time of the first gold fever, and died two years after in San Francisco with- 
out the fortune which he went after. At the age of 13, Josiah A. was brought 
to Northford by Dea. Charles Foote, a member of the House in 1883, and bound 
and apprenticed till 21, to F. C. Bartholomew in his tin manufactory. With the 
latter's consent, in October, 1861, being about 19 years old, he enlisted in Co. C, 
10th Conn. Vols., and served four years, lacking a month, till the end of the war. 
He was one of the followers of Lee's army from Petersburg to Appomattox 
where Lee finally surrendered. He received a medal made from a cannon captured 
from the rebels at Fort Wagner on Morris Island, for gallant and meritorious 
conduct, under Q. A. Gillmore. Upon returning home, he re-engaged with Mr. 
Bartholomew until he closed up business and was subsequently employed in North- 
ford, Meriden, and Stonington, and for the last five years has been employed as 
clerk in a grocery store. \V"as always a Republican. 



CONN. (tEnekal assembly. 37 

Spencer, Daniel Chapman, Old Saybrook. Republican. Episcopal, retired 
from business, married; age, 62. Born in Old Saybrook in 1823, and educated 
there. Followed farming: until 1845 or 1846, and then entered mercantile busi- 
ness as clerk in Old Saybrook and New York for three years; in 1849, located in 
New Haven as traveling salesman tor about three years ; in 1853, engaged in New 
York with the house of Moulton, Plimpton, Williams, & Co., for two years, and 
in 1855 was connected with the house of Claflin, Mellen, & Co. (now H. B. Claflin 
& Co.) until 1868, when he retired from business, on account of ill health, and 
returned to his native town. In 1870, he was influential in locating the Connecti- 
cut Valley railroad (now the H. & C. V. R. R.) in Old Saybrook, and has been a 
director of the road for eight years. Is also director in several manufacturing 
associations, and has served as auditor of railroad and town accounts. Always 
a Republican. 

Spencer, James Bartholomew, New Hartford. Republican, Congregation- 
alist, farmer, widower; age, 49. Born in New Hartford, April 14, 1836, and has 
always resided there. He is descended from James Spencer, who was prominent 
among the early settlers of the town. Educated in the common schools and the 
academy which formerly flourished at Nepaug ; he has always followed farming on a 
farm near his homestead. He is a pleasant, genial man, but of very decided con- 
victions. Served for five years as town assessor. Has always voted with the 
Republican party, 

Spencer, James P., Suffield. Republican, Protestant, farmer, single; age 36- 
Born in Suffield. and has always resided there. Educated at the Connecticut Lit- 
erary Institute and at Eagleswood Military academy, Perth Amboy, N. J. Has 
served as registrar of electors. Was always a Republican. 

Spurr, Andrew J., Salisbury. Democrat, farmer, widower; age, 56. Born 
in Sheffield, Mass., June 14, 1828, and has lived in Salisbury since 1851. He is 
the fifth son of Moses and Diadama Jones Spurr. His father was an enterprising 
and successful farmer, and left an estate of four hundred and twenty-two acres. 
His grandfather, at the age of 10, came from New York in 1764. Andrew J. 
lived at home till 18, receiving a common-school education, when his father and 
mother in 1846, while returning from a visit, were injured by an accident, the father 
dying in two and the mother in eight weeks, lie then worked on a farm for five 
years, and in 1850 married Sarahett, only daughter of Amos M. Johnson of Corn- 
wall, and the following spring purchased and moved on to his present farm in Chapin- 
ville. Farming has been his favorite avocation, and he has built up his farm and 
increased its productiveness fivefold, erecting all new buildings except one barn- 
he prides himself on being one of the best backbone farmers in town. His wile 
died in 1870; he has two children living, — Arthur ,]., 21, and Ernest C. 16. He 
has served as assessor, constable, grand juror, and selectman two years. Is a 
director in the Salisbury Savings Society at Lakevilie. He cast his first presiden- 
tial vote for Franklin Pierce, and has voted for every Democratic nominee since, 
including Grover Cleveland. He was named after President Jackson, who was 
elected the year he was born, and has always been closely identified with the Dem- 
ocratic party, and will cast his vote in the future as in the past. He received 457 
votes as representative, or 127 more than his competitor. 

Stalford, Francis H., Ridgefield. Republican. 

Stark, William Molthrop, New London. Democrat, Episcopal, professor 
of law. single; age, 29. Born in Portland, Oregon, September 14, 1855, and has re- 
sided in New London since 1862. Educated at the Episcopal academy, Cheshire, 
Trinity College, and in law at the Columbia law school. New York. Has never 
before held public office. 

Starkweather, Henry, Mansfield. Republican, Congregational preference, 
but willing to give all sects credit for the good in them, farmer, married; age, 63- 
Born in Mansfield, March 17, 1822, on the farm where he now lives. Educated 
in the common school and one term at Wilbraham high school. Taught school 
ihree winters and " boarded ' round." Besides farming, he has engaged to a con- 
siderable extent in butchering, buying and selling cattle, buying and cutting oft" 



38 ' BIOaRAPHICAL SKETCHES 

wood and timber lots and selling their production. Has served as constable, col" 
lector, and assessor. Was brought up a Whig, and has always been conservative 
in politics, and has voted as he thought best for the country. Is strongly opposed 
to free-trade and undue or unmerited southern power. 

Staub, Nicholas, New Milford. Democrat, Congregationalist, farmer and 
merchant, married; age, 44. Born in France, February 1, 1841, and has resided 
in the United States since 1857. Educated in the common schools of France and 
the United States. Has served as selectman, ^fember of the House in 1876 and 
1884. Was always a Democrat. 

Steele, Eli as M., Newington. Republican. 

Sterling, John R., Lyme. Democrat, liberal in religious views, formerly a 
teacher, later a clerk, married to a daughter of J. A. Bill; age, 43. Born at 
Lyme, and educated at Fort Edward Institute, New York. Taught school until the 
last fifteen years, when he was clerk of the H. &. N. Y. Steamboat Transportation 
Co. till taken sick with hemorrhage of the stomach, and left the company's employ 
in March, 1884, and was confined to the house most of the time till September, 
having several severe attacl^ ; then partially recovered and resumed partial duty 
on the boat, but was obliged to give it up on account of another sudden attack, 
and has since been very low. He has served as a member of the board of educa- 
tion, and was always a good Democrat. 

Stiles, Isaac L., North Haven. Republican, Episcopal, brick-manufacturer, 
married ; age, 65. Born in North Haven, educated there and has always resided 
there. Has served as postmaster, justice of the peace, selectman, and in other 
minor offices. Member of the House in 1854 and 1884, 

Stillman, James E., Colebrook. Democrat, Baptist, farmer, married; age, 
72. Born at North Colebrook, educated there and has always resided there. 
Has served as assessor and on the school committee. Was always a Democrat. 

Stone, Alvah A., Litchfield. Republican in national and state matters, but 
ready to take in jj;ood from any party; holds a prominent position in the official 
board of the Methodist church, but can worship with any evangelical denomina- 
tion : carpenter and builder by occupation, married; age, 67. Born in Litchfield 
and has always resided there. His life has been an uneventful one of daily toil. 
He began life poor and confesses that he has " held his own " right through. Was 
educated in the common school, but got the most of it from newspapers and peri- 
odicals, and from contact with his fellow-men. He well remembers his first day 
in school, standing up and reading, " No man may put off the law of God," from 
the old spelling-book. Served two years as sergeant in Co. E, 8th Connecticut 
Vols,, and was discharged for disability ; is still patriotically inclined towards 
the old fiag. He has kept aloof from public t»ffice. He was a Democrat until the 
formation of the Republican party. 

Stone, Levi, New Milford. Democrat, Congregationalist, butcher, married; 
age, 44. Born at New Milford, educated there and has always resided there. Has 
never sought or held public office. He possesses the esteem of his tiellow-towns- 
men, and was always a Democrat. 

Strong, George A., Chatham. Democrat, LTniversalist preference, carriage- 
maker, single ; age, 34. Born in East Hampton and has resided there the most 
of the time ; educated there. Has served as justice of the peace, grand juror, etc. 
Always a Democrat. 

Sturc;es, George A., Weston. Democrat, attends the Congregational church, 
farmer, married ; age, 30. Born in Weston, November 4, 1>54, and has always 
resided there. Educated at the U eston Military Institute. Has served as second 
selectman and is at [>resent finst selectman. Was always a Democrat. 

Sullivan, John D., Lisbon. Democrat, Catholic, engaged in lumbering and 
farming, married; age, 33 Born in County Cork, Ireland, in June, 1852. Edu- 
cated there, and has lived in Connecticut since coining to the United States. Is 
a man of good business qualifications. Always voted the Democratic ticket. 

SwARTWouT, John Henry, Stamford. Democrat, Episcopal, merchant (rail- 



CONN. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. ' 39 

road supplies), single; age, 35. Born in Stamford, November 19, 1849, and has 
always resided there. Educated there and at Burlington, N. J. He is averse to 
self-laudation, and prefers to stand by the record, thinking the public is only in- 
terested in the manner vs'hich lie discharges his official duties. He has served 
as a member of the board of burgesses and chairman of Uie Democratic tovyu 
town committee. Always been an earnest Democrat. 
Swift, Tallmadge, Warren. Republican. 

T 

Thompson, Feed H.. Bethlehem. Republican, no religious preference, farmer, 
married; age, 27. Born in Bethlehem, January 22, 1858, and has always resided 
there. Educated in the graded schools of Hartford. At the last election carried 
the town by fifty-four majority. 

Thompson, John, Ellington. Republican, Congregationalist, farmer, married; 
age, 45. Born in Ellington, January 11,1840, and lias always resided there. 
Educated in the common and high schools. Served in"he 25th Connecticut Vols., 
and was severely wounded in the battle of Irish Bend, La., from which he lias 
never recovered. Has served as selectman four years, being first, part of the time. 
Has always been a consistent Republican. 

Tiffany, James, Barkhamsted. Republican, Congregationalist, joiner and 
carpenter, married; age, 70. Born in Barkhamsted, November 6, 1814, educated 
in its common schools, and has always made his home there. Has served as con- 
stable, town clerk, judge of probate, selectman, and on the board of relief. Mem- 
ber of the House in 1853. Formerly a Whig. 

Troup, Alexander, New Haven. Democrat, no religious preference, journal- 
ist, married; age, 45. Born in Halifax, N. S., and has resided in Boston, Spring- 
field, and New York. Educated at the Royal Arcadian school, Halifax. Served 
as member of the special tax commission in 1882 and 1883. Is a vigorous and 
powerful writer. Member of the House in 1883. 

Trowbridge, Henry W., Roxbury. Democrat. Methodist, carriage-manufac- 
turer, married ; age, 44. Born in New Fairfield, February 21, 1841, and has re- 
sided in Roxbury since 1862. Attended the district school from four to sixteen years 
of age, and was carefully brought up in the paths of temperance, morality, and re- 
ligion. Had two narrow escapes from death in childhood, one by drowning and 
the other by being crushed by his father's barn which was demolished by a tor- 
nado. Worked in the carriage-shop of William B. Hawley, New Fairfield, from 
sixteen till twenty-one years of age. Was there when the " peace flag " was raised 
when a skirmish took place with an opposition party from Danbury, and about 
which the drama, " Charcoal Run," was written. Removed to Danbury in 1862, 
and started carriage-making on his own account. Was drafted, but was exempted, 
having three brothers already in the service. Rescued a woman from death by 
being crushed by the cars at the depot in New Haven on one occasion, and only 
received from her a volley of abuse of the railroad officials for carelessness. Has 
served as grand juror two terms, and been superintendent of the M.E. S. school. 
Has always been a Democrat. 

TuRKiNGTON, Frank H., Morris. Republican. 

Turner, Sturges P., Glastonbury. Republican, no religious preference, dealer 
in groceries, flour, grain, etc., married; age, 28. Born in Glastonbury, October 
16, 1856, and has always lived there. Educated in the common schools and at the 
Glastonbury academy. Has never held public office and has always been a 
Republican . 

TuTTLE, Charles S., Wolcott. Republican, Congregationalist, carpenter and 
joiner, single ; age, 25. Born in Old Saybrook, April 28, 1860, and has resided in 
Wolcott for the last twenty years. Educated in the common school. Was always 
a Republican. 



40 BIOtiKAPHICAL SKETCHES 



I 

Usher, Robert C, Plainville. Iiepublican. no religious preference, merchant, 
married; age, 44. Horn in Plymouth, April 19, 1841, educated there chiefly, and 
has always resided there. Has served as town clerk and registrar. 

w 

Wakemax, Andrew P., Fairfield. Democrat, Congregationalist, farmer, mar- 
ried; age, 46. Born in Fairfield in 1838, and always resided there. Educated in 
the public schools. Has held the various local offices. Member of the House in 
1881 and 1884. 

Waldo, John, Killingly. Republican, Congregationalist, merchant, married; 
age, 50. Born in Canterbury, March 26, 1826, and has resided in Killingly for the 
past thirty-six years. In early life worked on his father's farm summers, and 
attended the district school winters, and at the age of seventeen commenced teach- 
ing. Taught five winterkill Lisbon, two in Canterbury, and one in Killingly. 
Commenced mercantile business at twenty-five with his brother, Simon S., and has 
■continued ever since. The firm is now Waldo Brothers, dealers in groceries, flour, 
grain, etc., corner Main and Academy streets, Danielsonville. Their aim ever 
has been to deal honorably and squarely, and by close application to business they 
have been very successful merchants. He has ti-aveled considerably in this coun- 
try, and in 1S'80 made a trip abroad with his pastor, Rev. .James Dingwell, as his 
guest. They traveled for four months in Great Britain, Holland, Belgium, Ger- 
many, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, and France. Was chosen deacon of the church 
in 1861. Has served as assessor, on the board of relief, as bank director, and presi- 
dent of the Music Hall Co. Was formerly a Whig. 

Waldo, Loren A.. Hebron. Republican, now and always, no religious pref- 
erence stated, farmer for the past eight years (previously traveling salesman for 
several years) married; age, 41. Boin in Hebron, March 14, 1844. and has always 
resided "there, with the exception of a few years in Maryland. Educated in the 
public .>>chools. Enlisted in the 1st Light Battery, Connecticut Vols., August 15, 
1862, served two years and seven months, and was discharged by order of President 
Lincoln, Taught school the following winter, and followed teaching in Maryland 
for several seasons. Then engaged in the sale of nursery stock for different firms, 
and traveling salesman for some seasons. Has held the offices of secretary of the 
school board and acting school visitor for several years. Has always been a 
Republican. 

Wallace, George M., Wallingford. Independent Democrat, Congregation- 
alist, lawyer, married : age, 30. Born in North Haven, April 11, 1855. Educated 
at Yale. After preparing for college he went to California via the Isthmus of 
Panama, and returned across the country to Omaha, thence through Texas to New 
Orleans, and to New York by water. Graduated from Yale, academic class of 
'81, standing fifteenth in a class of one hundred and thirty. Then spent a year in 
Europe, visiting Switzerland, Germany, France, England. Ireland, and Scotland; 
spent about four months in Berlin and entered the university, but not with inten- 
tion of prolonged study. Entered the Yale law school in September, 1882, and 
graduated in June, 1884. Has been practicing law and tutoring in New Haven 
and Wallingford since. Was formerly a Republican, but took the stump for 
Cleveland in the late campaign, and is delighted, in a quiet way, with the result 
of the canvass. 

Warner, Andrew J., Berlin. Democrat, believes in common-sense religion, 
contractor, married; age, 49. Born in Kensington, town of Bristol, April 16, 
1836. Educated at the New Britain high school. In the fall of 1860, went to 
Milledgeville, Ga., to engage in business. Attended the secession convention sev- 
■eral times as an interested spectator ; listened to the great speech of Alexander H. 
Stephens in opposition to the measure. Was compelled to return north in June, 
1861, by reason of the war. Engaged as shipping clerk in North & Judd's manu- 



CONN. GENERAL ASSEMBLY. 41 

facturing establishment at New Britain for twenty-two years. In December, 
18G5, accepted a position as shipping clerk and foreman of the packing department 
for the Hart Manufacturing Co. at Kensington, afterwards changed to the Hart, 
Bliven, & Mead Manufacturing Co., at present owned by the Peck, Stow, & Wilcox, 
Co. ; been continuously connected with these companies for nineteen years. Has 
served as justice of the peace, collector, assessor, selectman, etc. Member of the 
House in 1864-76-77 and 79. In 1877 served on committee on Forfeited Rights, 
and in 1879 on committee on Finance. Always a Democrat. 

W.\uNEn, JoHX A., Haddam. Republican, no religious preference, farmer and 
•dealer in wood and lumber at Tylerville, married; age, 38. Bern in Hatfield, 
Mass., October 10, 1816. Educated there and lived for a time at East Haddam. 

Warren, Charles Orville, Eastford. Republican, Episcopal, clerk, married; 
age, 34, Born in Vernon, and has lived in Cambridge, Mass. Educated in the 
common schools and at the Franklin grammar school in Somerville, Mass. Since 
he left school he has been a clerk in his father's store and a-sistant postmaster for 
twelve years, his father being postmaster. At the election the Democrats ran his 
defeated Republican contestant for the Republican nomination for representative 
against him, heading their ticket "Independent Republican," but he was hand- 
somely elected. Has served three years as chairman of the Republican town com- 
mittee, and has always been a Republican . 

Wheeler, Olin, South Windsor. Democrat, no religious preference, salesman 
for Olds & Whipple, Hartford, married; age, 39. Born at East Haddam, March 
14, 1846. Educated in the common and select schools. Has served as constable 
and tax-collector for three years. Was always a Democrat. 

Wheeler, Hobart R., Trumbull. Democrat, Episcopal; age, 44. Born in 
Trumbull, November 20, 1840. 

Wheeler, Thomas S., North Stonington. Republican, Congregationalisti 
formerly a merchant, married; age, 69. Born in Stonington, October 14,1815; 
educated there, and has resided in Norwich and New York. Has served as post- 
master, treasurer of school fund, and treasurer of deposit fund and of the Congre- 
gational society. Member of the House in 18S4. Formerly a Whig. 

White, Edwin W"., Groton. Democrat, no religious preference stated, grocer, 
married ; age, 51. Born, educated, and always had his home in Groton. He has 
.spent about twenty-two years of his life on the sea; was captain of a whaliHg ves- 
sel for seven years in the Pacific Ocean and in the Arctic regions. 

Wilcox, Henry O., Sirasbury, Republican, Congregationalist, mechanic, 
married; a^e, 62. Born in Simsbury, educated in the common school. Has 
worked in different parts of the state at house, mill, and bridge building, and in 
1854 and 1855 was in Mississippi building bridges for the Mobile & Ohio railroad. 
Served as selectman one year, and school district clerk and treasurer since 1860. 
Always a Republican. 

WiLDMAN, Alfred N., Danbury. Republican, no religious preference, na- 
tional-bank president, u;arried; age, 46. Born, educated, and always lived in 
Danbury. Was a hat-manufacturer for more than twenty years. 

WiLDMAN, Hendrick H., New Fairfield. Democrat, Methodist, farmer and 
teacher, married; age, 55. Born in New Fairfield, March 25, 1830. Educated at 
the New Fairfield academy, doing chores for the principal to pay for his tuition 
and board, and keeping up with his classes in school; mostly self-educated, not 
attending school any after 16 years old. Has been engaged in farming summers, 
and teaching school winters. Although not admitted to the bar, he has quite a 
practice before the justice courts in his own and adjoining towns. He was a con- 
tractor for keeping the poor from 1870 to 1876. He has served as assessor and on 
the board of I'elief, school visitor twenty-eight years, regisi rar of voters sixteen years 
town auditor fifteen years, justice of the peace twenty years. Member of the 
House in 1863 and 1879 ; in the latter year served on the committee on Education, 
and was an earnest debater on the fioor on other bills not before that committee. 
He was always a Democrat. As a citizen he is active in politics ; but in office he 
knows no party, only to do right. 



42 bioctRaphical sketches. 

WiLLARD, Will L., "NVethersfield. Always a Republican, Congvegationalist, 
merchant, member of the firm- of F. W. Warner & Co., merchant tailors, 108 and 
110, Asylum street. Hartford, married; age, 35. Born in Wethersfield, and 
always has retained his i-esidence there. Educated at Easthamplon. Mass. Has 
served as clerk ntt the state-prison, and secretary and treasurer of the Cleveland 
house of correction. Traveled after his official term expired till he formed his 
present partnership, where a successful business is being transacted. 

Williams, George, New London. Democrat, Episcopal, baker, married ; age, 
71. Born in England in May, 1814, and has resided in the United States since 
1840. Educated in England. Has held the offices of alderman, councilman, and 
chief engineer of the fire department. He owns and operates one of the finest 
baking establishments in the state, built up by his own efforts. His son is now a 
member of the firm. He is universally respected in the community in which he 
lives. Member of the House in 1877 and 1884. Was always a sound and reli- 
able Democrat. 

Woodruff, Isaac B., Winchester. Republican always, Episcopal, manufacturer 
of clocks, married : age, 65. Born in AVatei'town. August, II, 1819. Resided in 
Litchfield from 1835 to 1851. and since then in Winsted. Educated in the com- 
mon schools. His ancestors were fanners, and he remained upon the farm till 16; 
then engaged as an apprentice to the firm of Firth, Hall, & Pond. New York, 
with factory at Litchfield, in the manufacture of musical instruments; continued 
there as superintendent until 1851 ; then came to Winsted and formed a partner- 
ship with William L. Gilbert in the manufacture of clocks. For the past seven- 
teen years he has held the office of secretary and treasurer under the different 
organizations of the Gilbert clock companies. Is director of the First National 
bank of Winsted, and corporatee in the Mechanic Savings bank, and for many 
years treasurer of St. James' church. Served as selectman one year during the war. 
Was formerly a Whig, and cast his first vote for Gen. Harrison. 

Wright, Philo, Willington. Republican, no religious preference, farmer, 
married; age, 57. IBorn in Ashford, March 2, 1828, and has resided, in Willing- 
ton since 1855. Educated in the common school. Has served as selectman, town 
agent, assessor, and member of the board of relief. Voted for Fremont, and has 
acted with the Republican party ever since then. 

TABLrES OF INTEREST, Useges, Rent, Board, Woort, Grain, 

Flonr and ^leal. 

A Book for the million! 200 pages, small pocket form; just what every mechanic, every farmer and every 
miller wants ; has over 20,000 calculations, of grain in bushels and pounds from 10 cents to $2.00 per bushel, 
shows the number of bushels and pounds there are in different kinds of grain from 32 to 6,000 pounds ; tables / 
of interest, wages, hay tables, plowing tables; cost of pork, shrinkage of grain, business maxims, reckoner 
tables from ^ of a cent to $2, from one pound, yard or gallon to 500. Miscellaneous tables, capacity of cis- 
terns, maxims on business and law, etc. No book of its kind and price contains so many useful tables for 
farmers, mechanics, grain-dealers, and others. Price 25 cents. Sent post-paid for price. 

Addi'ess L. 1?. liROTVIV, Concord, IV. H. 



EOO AND EUMBER BOOK. Designed for Lumber Merchants, mechanics, and 
all who handle logs or lumber of any kind. An interesting and valuable book for everybody. A standard 
work of igo pages, stiff covers; can be carried in the pocket. Gives correct measurement of scantling, 
boards, plank, square and round lumber, and their cubical contents. Saw logs reduced to board measure by 
Doyle's method. Specific gravity and weight of different woods. Stair and heading bolt table. Interest and 
wages tables. Hints in selecting standing trees and defects of timber. Felling timber. Sent post-paid to- 
any address for 25 cents. L. B. BROWX, Concord, X. H. 



ADVERTISEMENTS. 



43 



Adamson's Botanic Balsam. 

THE GREATEST TlCTORl OF TflEDIC AL SCIENCE. 
New Trial Size^ 10 cts, Mef/ular size, 35 cts. and 75 cts* 



It is pleasant to tale, and cures as if hy magic, 
Colds, Coughs, Aathma, Influenza, Hoarseness, 
Difficult Breatliing, and all Affections of the 
Throat, Bronchial Tubes and Lungs, leading to 

CONSUSVSPTION. 

TELI^I^'t; KKFKKE^'a'KS. 

Congressman James G. Blaine, Washing' 
ton, D. C. ; Chaplain C. C. McCabe, Chicago' 
Rev. A. S. Weed, Boston ; Rev. Dr. Torsey, 
ivent's Hill, Me.; Hon. Xelson Dinglej^, Wash- 
ington, D. C. ; Hon. J. W. Bradbury, Augusta, 
Me.; (CampiMeetiiig) Rev. John Allen; Hon. 
P. O. VicUi-ry, :\Iayor; J. H. Manly, Post- 
master, Augusta, Me.; J. H. Raymond, Custom 
House, Bath, Me.; Samuel Rideout, Custom 
House, Calais, Me.; R. M. Pulsifer, Boston 
Herald; W. W. Clapp, Boston Journal; pub- 
lisher Boston Pilot. 

E3IIXEi\T PHYSICIANS. 

From George W. Martin, M. D., graduate 
" Uuiversity of New York," "Bellevue Ho.s- 
pital," and "New York Opthalmic Hos- 
pital," late Surgeon in the Army, etc., and 
I. H. Stearns, M. D., formerly surgeon Na- 
tional Military Asylum, Togus, Me. : 
"Having examined the formula from which 
Adamson's Botanic Cough Balsam Is prepared, 
Ave recommend it as a safe and reliable medi- 
cine for the cure of coughs, colds, whooping- 
cough, asthma, etc., etc." 

26 YEARS* EXPEKIEJWCE. 

Mi'ssrs. F. jr. Kinsman tC- Co., — Gents: I have 
sold your Adamson's Botanic Cough Balsam 
over mj^ counter for nine years; and I must 
say that during an experience of twenty-six 
years in the retail drug business I have never 
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given such universal satislactiou as your 
Adamson's Botanic Cough Balsam. I recom- 
mend it above all others. Y'ours truly. 

S. CHICHESTER, 
357 Myrtle ave., Brooklyn, N. Y. 

UIVIVERSAE S.4TISFACTIO]V. 

From Geo. C. Goodwin & Co., New England 

Patent Medicine Warehouse. 

BOSTON", April 18, 1882. 

F. W. Kinsman & Co. — Gents : The last lot of 
Adamson's Botanic Cough Balsam is nearly 
gone, and you had better make us another 
shipment of -25 gross. We have never sold any 
cough preparation that gives such unirersal 
satisfaction as Adamson's, and the demand is 
constantly increasing. 

It is prepared from highlij concentrated, Vegetable 
Extracts, ami Barks, Gums and Roots of Won- 
derful Healing properties, and this Balsam is 
highly recommended by Clergjmen, eminent 
Physicians, and scientific men everywhere, I 
testimonials from whom we can furnish with- 
out number. I 



Rev. Dr. Day, New York City, Wm. R. Smith, 
Cashier Savings Bank, Augusta; C. C. Nutter, 
Esq., Boston; Wm. H. Taylor, Beacon street, 
Boston; Rev. Wm. Bray, East Greenwich, R. 
I.; H. C. Richmond, Westerly, R. I.; John E. 
Potter, Pharmacist, Providence, R. I., and 28 
druggists in Providence; J. J. Sullivan, G. M. 
Paine, Henry Frazier, Pawtucket, R. I. ; and 
hundreds of others. 

SEtONO TO XO OTHER. 

From Rev. H. P. Torsey, D. D., LL.D., for- 
merly President Elaine Wesleyau Seminary 
and Femaie College, Kent's Hill, Me. 
Dr. F. W. Kinsman, —Dear .Sir: For five 
years the students under my care have used 
Adamson's Botanic Cough Balsam, and have, 
I think, found it second to no other remedy 
for throat and lung troubles. 

FOUR PHYSICIANS FAIEED. 

From Lieut. Jno. Osborn, firm of Evans, Web- 
ster & Co., Boston : 
Two bottles of Adamson's Botanic Balsam 

elTected a cure in my family that four .skillful 

physicians failed to do. 

CrREI> ASTH.^IA WHEN AI.E 

EESE FAIEED. 

I was troubled with Asthma for 12 years. 
Emplojed skillful physicians of Boston with 
out effect for good. Ihave felt nothing ot this 
trouble since taking Adamson's Botanic Cough 
Balsam. B. FRANK SWAN, Boston. 

FromlVIEl,!AM Y. BARTEETT, 
POSTMASTER 25 YEARS 

AT I?EI.1Ij;R.\I>E, 
■^lAINE, 

I have been troubled with a severe cough 
for nearly one year; have been treated bj^ two 
of the best physicians I could find; my case 
was considered past cure. The physicians did 
all they could to cure me, and considered my 
case a hopeless one. Finally, as a last resort, 
I was advised to try Adamson's Botanic Cough 
Balsam, to which I owe :ny present health, 
which is as good as ever. 

WILLIAM Y. BARTLETT. 

I HAVE HAD A TROCBLESOME COUGH 
FOR MORE THAN FIVE YEARS, and have had 
advice of three of the mostskilled physicians, 
but I found nothing to relieve and cure me till 
I used Adamson's Botanic Cough Balsam. 
Mrs. GEO. A. BOBBINS, 
Riverside, Me. 

TRASH FLOODS THE iMARKET 

Adamson's Botanic Cough Balsam is fast 
takingthe lead of the many bottles of trash 
that now flood the market. 

SMITH, DOOLITTLE & SMITH, 
Wholesale Druggists, Boston. 



II^^Beware of imitations ! See that the name of F. W. KINSMAN, Druggist, Augusta, Me., 
is blown in the glass ot each bottle. Sold bv all respectable Druggists and Dealers. 
F. W. KINSMAN & CO., Proprietors, 343 1th Avenue, >;ew York City. 



44 



ADVERTISEMENTS. 




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rUBLISHED AT 



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Has a larg^er circulation than any other Weekly Agricultural and Family Paper published in 

Xew England, except oue: much larger than the combined circulation of any other 

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Its average circulation for the last tliree months of 1884 was twenty-two 
thousand nine hundred and sixty-six (22,966) copies. 

It is an eight page paper of fifty-six columns, two pages being devoted exclusively to farm- 
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cents a line, with liberal discounts on large orders. 

The subscribers of the Mirror axd Fab]mp:r are a thrifty, well-to-do class, who pay for the 
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WEBSTER 

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IMPORTANT 



ANNOUNCEMENT, 



& 



THE 2=ESICE O^ TISE 



FACELINE 






Advertised on Page 5 of this Volume, 

IS 

50 Cents per Bottle. 



It is of Unequaled Merit, and is Universally Praised, 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES 



STATE OFFICERS. 



Ieibks of tie Sehte 11 Ike of Iepeeseititiws 



A 



m 



n 



- . x\J \j ^ . 



m 



L/i^iyl 



TA 



li 



DF-OIE^ 1885. 



V^ 



o^ 



_^p^ 

COMPILED BY L. B. BROWN. 



VOLUME I. 
PRICE, TWEJVTY CEJVTS. 



HARTFORD, CONN.: 

PUBLISHED BY THE COMPILER. 

1885. 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1885, by L. B. Brown, in the olHce of the 
Librarian ot Congress at Washington. 



i • 



I 



ll^FFe?8 




014 075 721 4 ^ 



